UAV Packaging Engineer; mid to Senior level

WORK LOCATION

San Luis Obispo, CA

Exempt

The anticipated salary range for this role is $xx to $xx per hour / annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.

Redwire Defense Tech is seeking a Packaging Engineer responsible for developing, testing, and optimizing packaging solutions for UAV components, payloads, and mission‑critical subsystems. This role ensures that sensitive aerospace hardware arrives mission‑ready under diverse transport and operational conditions.

This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer who thrives in a hands‑on, mission‑driven, high‑reliability aerospace environment.

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.

• Engineer durable and cost‑effective packaging solutions for UAV components, avionics, optics, propulsion systems and ground support equipment.
• Convert engineering requirements and CAD models into complete packaging designs, drawings and specifications.
• Conduct and document validation testing (drop, vibration, shock, environmental, transit) in accordance with ISTA, ASTM and MIL‑STD guidelines.
• Ensure packaging meets durability and environmental protection needs for global and expeditionary deployment conditions.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical engineering, manufacturing, and logistics teams to integrate packaging seamlessly into production workflows.
• Create BOMs, packaging instructions, and assembly documentation for internal and supplier use.
• Support material selection and supplier qualification for foam, corrugate, composite and protective case suppliers.
• Diagnose and resolve packaging‑related issues from production or field feedback, driving continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with defense packaging standards and export regulations.

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related.
• 3–6 years of packaging design engineering experience (aerospace, defense, electronics or similar industries preferred).
• Proficiency with CAD design tools such as Solid Works or NX.
• Knowledge of ISTA, ASTM or MIL‑STD environmental and transport testing standards.
• Strong understanding of cushioning design, shock/vibration mitigation and protective case engineering.
• Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong documentation, organization and project‑management skills.

• Experience packaging sensitive electronics, optics, avionics or UAV subsystems.
• Familiarity with MIL‑STD‑2073, MIL‑STD‑129 and other DoD packaging/marking requirements.
• Experience with DFMA/DFX, cost modeling or supplier sourcing strategies.
• Prior experience in defense, aerospace or regulated manufacturing environment.

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential…