Technical Operations Engineer, Anvil

About the role

This role connects product engineering with deployed operations for the Anvil portfolio within the Tactical Recon & Strike team. The position operates with hardware, software, and networking in unstructured, remote, and hazardous environments. Collaboration with product teams and field deployment ensures system reliability and effectiveness for defense missions. You will serve as the critical interface between engineering design and real-world execution, ensuring that deployed systems function as intended when it matters most. You will own the full lifecycle of operational readiness, from initial deployment through sustained support and continuous improvement. Your work will directly influence the reliability and performance of systems in the field, impacting mission outcomes. You will translate complex technical issues into actionable plans that allow teams to operate effectively under difficult conditions. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, as you will need to convey technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Key facts

What you'll do

Anvil expertise directs event planning and resource allocation, with stakeholders kept informed on support requirements to reduce risk. Operational employment guidance shapes best practices for internal and customer missions. Root-cause analyses investigate air system incidents in the field to identify underlying issues and prevent recurrence. Preventive measures from post-incident reviews strengthen future reliability and system robustness. Documentation for Anvil remains current and reflects real-world conditions, ensuring that procedures align with actual use. You will diagnose and repair critical site product components and infrastructure, applying strong mechanical aptitude to solve complex problems. Understanding of flight operations, aircraft systems, and sensors is demonstrated through hands-on interaction with deployed hardware. Handling energetic materials is conducted with appropriate protocols and awareness to ensure safety and compliance. Independent and collaborative problem-solving supports team effectiveness in demanding conditions, requiring adaptability and resilience. Travel up to 80% occurs, including to hazard zones as mission needs dictate, requiring flexibility and the ability to perform in varied environments. U.S. eligibility to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/Secret security clearance is mandatory for continued employment. Employment is based in Costa Mesa, CA, with no remote or hybrid options available to ensure full immersion in the operational context.

Requirements

The posting states a pay range of $113000 to $149000. The posting states a bachelor's degree requirement. A minimum of 3 years of strong problem-solving experience at the hardware, software, and networking interface in unstructured environments is required. Critical site product components and infrastructure are diagnosed and repaired using strong mechanical aptitude. Understanding of flight operations, aircraft systems, and sensors is demonstrated. Handling energetic materials is conducted with appropriate protocols and awareness. Independent and collaborative problem-solving supports team effectiveness in demanding conditions. Travel up to 80% occurs, including to hazard zones as mission needs dictate. U.S. eligibility to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/Secret security clearance is mandatory. Employment is based in Costa Mesa, CA, with no remote or hybrid options available.

Nice to have

Preferred backgrounds include degrees in aerospace engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering, or related fields. Experience with weapon systems for manned aircraft, UAS, or missiles adds domain relevance. Live-fire munitions testing or munitions handling experience supports testing objectives. VTOL quad copter air system familiarity aids operational understanding. Coding experience in Linux or similar programming languages enables automation. Backgrounds in military deployments with Special Operations Forces or in hazard zones informs operational pacing.

Skills & tools

General technical operations in defense environments rely on unmanned air vehicle development programs and integrated systems like Anvil. Field deployments require proficiency in documentation, communication tools, and logistical planning methods. Data-driven decisions emerge from incident analyses and post-incident reviews, driving continuous improvement. You will utilize a range of diagnostic tools and test equipment to evaluate system performance and identify faults. Familiarity with software-defined platforms is essential for adapting to evolving operational needs. You will contribute to the maintenance of detailed records that track system behavior and maintenance history. Effective coordination with logistics and supply chain teams ensures that necessary resources are available when needed. You will participate in after-action reviews to capture lessons learned and refine procedures. The role requires the ability to work effectively in dynamic, fast-paced environments where priorities can shift quickly.

Practical notes

This position requires eligibility and maintenance of a U.S. Top Secret/Secret security clearance. The role is located in Costa Mesa, California, and does not support remote or hybrid work. Significant travel, including to austere and hazardous locations, is expected.

Good to know

Work in defense technology focuses on transforming military capabilities through advanced systems and autonomy. The role operates within a team that converts concepts into operational systems using software-defined platforms. Field activities involve direct interaction with prototypes and deployed environments, providing hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology. Documentation and communication are integral to sustaining operations, ensuring that knowledge is preserved and shared across the team. Continuous learning and adaptability are essential in fast-paced, mission-driven contexts where technologies and threats evolve rapidly. You will be expected to maintain a high level of situational awareness and professionalism at all times. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, quality, and mission success. This role is part of a larger effort to deliver critical capabilities to customers in demanding operational contexts. You will work alongside experienced professionals who are dedicated to excellence and innovation in defense technology. The position offers opportunities for professional growth and development through exposure to complex systems and challenging environments. You will be expected to take ownership of your work and contribute proactively to team objectives. The role requires a high degree of self-motivation and discipline to succeed in a demanding operational setting.