Hardware Engineering Program Manager
San Mateo, California, United States - Full-time
Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in battlefield scenarios, and beyond.
About the role
Skydio is seeking a Hardware Engineering Program Manager to partner closely with our hardware engineering teams and lead the development of next-generation autonomous systems. In this role, you will drive complex electromechanical programs from concept through mass production, coordinating across mechanical, electrical, software, systems, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to deliver highly integrated products at scale.
You will help shape the execution strategy for cutting-edge hardware platforms that enable Skydio’s autonomous flight ecosystem. This role requires strong technical depth, exceptional cross-functional leadership, and the ability to navigate ambiguity while driving programs forward with urgency and clarity.
How you'll make an impact
Program Leadership & Execution
Own end-to-end execution of complex hardware development programs from concept through production ramp.
Build and drive integrated plans across engineering, validation, manufacturing, and operations teams.
Define priorities and drive cross-functional tradeoff decisions to keep teams focused on highest-impact work.
Identify program risks early and drive rapid resolution to maintain schedule and product goals.
Cross-Functional Engineering Integration
Coordinate system integration, prototype builds, and technical validation activities across development phases.
Lead structured engineering reviews and decision-making forums to ensure technical alignment and execution clarity.
Track dependencies, surface blockers, and ensure teams are operating against clear milestones and deliverables.
Supplier & Manufacturing Engagement
Partner closely with suppliers and manufacturing teams throughout development and production readiness.
Drive supplier execution on critical components, tooling, and validation deliverables to support build schedules.
Coordinate with Operations and Manufacturing Engineering teams to prepare for prototype and production builds.
Support key factory activities, including domestic and international travel during critical build and ramp phases.
What makes you a good fit
Minimum Qualifications
Strong technical understanding of mechanical, electrical, or systems engineering development processes.
3-5 years of experience developing and manufacturing complex electromechanical products at consumer or high-volume scale.
Experience working in consumer electronics, robotics, automotive, aerospace, or related industries.
Demonstrated ability to drive cross-functional alignment across engineering, operations, and supply chain organizations.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience bringing products from concept through mass production.
Familiarity with prototype build cycles, EVT/DVT/PVT development, and manufacturing ramp processes.
Experience working directly with overseas suppliers as well as local manufacturing partners.
Strong systems-thinking mindset with the ability to understand cross-functional technical tradeoffs.
Exceptional communication, organizational, and leadership skills in fast-paced environments.
Passion for autonomous systems, robotics, and advanced hardware development.
Obtaining FAA Part 107 certification within the first 60 days of employment is strongly encouraged for all Skydio employees and required for certain positions.
Compensation: At Skydio, our compensation packages for regular, full-time employees include competitive base salaries, equity in the form of stock options, and comprehensive benefits packages. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. Relocation assistance may also be provided for eligible roles. The annual base salary range for this position is $147,000 - $210,000*. Fundamentally, we believe that equity is the key to long-term financial growth, and we ensure all regular, full-time employees have the opportunity to significantly benefit from the company's success. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to enroll in the Company’s group health insurance plans. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to receive the following benefits: Paid vacation time, sick leave, holiday pay and 401K savings plan. This position and all associated benefits are subject to applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as the Company’s policies and eligibility criteria.
*Compensation for certain positions may vary based on the position’s location.
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At Skydio we believe that diversity drives innovation. We have created a multidisciplinary environment that embraces the power of diverse perspectives to create elegant solutions for complex problems. We are committed to growing our network of people, programs, and resources to nurture an inclusive culture.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local anti-discrimination laws.
For positions located in the United States of America, Skydio, Inc. uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit https://www.e-verify.gov/