Deputy Chief Scientist

ABOUT THE TEAM

Anduril’s Tactical Recon & Strike (TRS) is a division with two missions: 1) build highly capable autonomous drones, and 2) build solid rocket motors at scale. We transform products like Ghost, Anvil, Bolt, and Altius from early concepts into fully operational capabilities by partnering closely with specialist engineering, operations, and production teams. Through our Anduril Rocket Motor Systems (RMS) team, we design and manufacture solid rocket motors using advanced materials, proprietary formulations, and high-volume production methods—delivering safe, reliable propulsion systems that support a wide range of mission requirements. TRS hires software engineers & hardware engineers, who are excited to build across a diverse and powerful portfolio—from autonomous aerial systems to high-performance solid rocket motors. Our teams contribute to highly capable autonomous robotics systems and propulsion products that operate reliably in the most demanding mission environment.

ABOUT THE JOB

The Deputy Chief Scientist will support the Chief Scientist in leading technical initiatives, overseeing product development, and ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. This role involves collaboration with engineering teams to drive innovation in manufacturing processes and materials.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Assist the Chief Scientist in developing and implementing technical strategies, reviewing technical design approaches, developing technical requirements for facilities, etc.
• Fill-in voting member and chair for the Plant Process Control Board
• Attend in-person customer-facing and vendor facing visits as a technical subject matter expert
• Lead and mentor science, engineering, and production teams in product development and material selection.
• Function as a formulator as time and priority allows to stay abreast of operational changes and updates in ingredients, materials, and processes.
• Conduct training, especially cross functional training to ensure that all teams understand the technical limitations and opportunities that the other teams can provide
• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify technical priorities and project opportunities.
• Work closely with the Growth team to evaluate opportunity and risk associated with potential business availabilities.
• Evaluate and optimize manufacturing processes to enhance product performance, quality, and safety.
• Brainstorm, edit, review, and potentially approve equipment and process requirements
• Develop technical operational readiness inspection (ORI) checklists for new equipment, including scientific instruments
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Represent the organization at industry conferences and other technical meetings.
• Foster partnerships with academic institutions and industry experts.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field with a strong emphasis on chemistry.
• Extensive experience in a manufacturing or production environment, especially energetic materials manufacturing and production.
• Strong knowledge of polymers, materials science, and chemistry.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary setting with few direct task assignments.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in solid rocket motor product development and process optimization.
• Familiarity with current trends in materials and manufacturing technology.
• Leadership experience in an engineering or technical organization.
• Knowledge of government regulations surrounding the manufacturing, storing, shipping, testing, and use of energetic materials, especially composite rocket propellant.
• Experience formulating propellants and/or explosives highly desired.

This hire will work on-site at one of our locations: 

• McHenry, Mississippi Anduril Site OR
• Huntsville, Alabama Anduril Site