Role OverviewWe're seeking a Principal-level leader to own the design, deployment, and evolution of our company's intelligence layer-the systems, workflows, and AI-native applications that connect engineering, manufacturing, and business functions. You'll define how information flows across the organization, deploy AI tools safely and effectively, and translate operational pain points into engineered solutions.
This is a high-impact strategic role that requires both architectural vision and hands-on execution. You'll manage our Senior IT Infrastructure Engineer, partner cross-functionally with engineering and operations teams, and have the autonomy to hire software engineers as needed to build custom AI-native applications. The ideal candidate is an engineer-turned-product leader who understands how to build scalable systems while staying obsessively focused on solving real user problems.
This is an onsite opportunity in our El Segundo, CA office.
ResponsibilitiesSystems Architecture & Information Design- Define and implement the company's information architecture-how data, knowledge, and documentation flow across engineering, manufacturing, and business teams
- Design the platforms, integrations, and workflows that serve as the "central nervous system" connecting cross-functional operations
- Establish governance frameworks, documentation standards, and data safety protocols that ensure scalability without sacrificing speed
- Partner with IT leadership to ensure infrastructure, security, and access controls support the information architecture vision
AI Platform Operations & Deployment- Own the strategy and execution for deploying AI tools (Claude Enterprise, custom agents, automation workflows) across the organization
- Design and enforce containment layers, access permissions, and network isolation strategies for AI systems
- Identify high-impact use cases for AI automation, prioritize based on pain points, and drive cross-functional adoption
- Ensure AI deployments meet security, compliance, and data governance requirements
Technical Product & Program Leadership- Act as the voice of the user-deeply understand pain points across engineering, manufacturing, and business operations teams
- Translate operational challenges into technical solutions, either through platform configuration or by directing software engineers to build custom applications
- Lead cross-functional projects that require coordination across IT, software, systems, and business teams
- Balance speed and rigor-design systems that enable fast iteration while maintaining proper documentation, structure, and maintainability
- Build business cases, define success metrics, and track the impact of information systems and AI initiatives
Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration- Hire and manage software engineers as needed to develop AI-native applications and automation workflows
- Partner with engineering leadership to support data pipelines, telemetry infrastructure, and real-time monitoring systems
- Interface credibly with deeply technical teams (propulsion engineers, electrochemical engineers, manufacturing specialists) to understand their workflows and pain points
Requirements- 7+ years of experience in platform engineering, technical program management, business systems architecture, or related technical leadership roles
- Strong technical foundation with hands-on experience building or deploying systems at scale (engineering, platform, or infrastructure background required)
- Demonstrated experience deploying AI/ML platforms, tools, or automation workflows in production environments
- Proven ability to design information architecture, data governance frameworks, or enterprise-scale platform strategies
- Track record of leading cross-functional projects and earning credibility with deeply technical engineering teams
- Experience working in high-growth, fast-paced environments (hardware, aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing strongly preferred)
- Strong systems-thinking mindset-ability to see organizational challenges as interconnected systems, not isolated problems
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to both engineers and non-technical stakeholders
Preferred Qualifications- Experience building business systems or internal platforms that connect engineering, manufacturing, and operations functions
- Background in AI/ML operations (MLOps), including model deployment, monitoring, and governance at scale
- Familiarity with data acquisition systems, time-series databases, or real-time telemetry infrastructure
- Experience managing technical teams or hiring and mentoring engineers
- Understanding of security frameworks, compliance requirements, or data governance in regulated industries
- Product management or technical program management experience in platform, infrastructure, or developer tools
- Exposure to manufacturing execution systems (MES), ERP platforms, or industrial automation workflows
Compensation & Benefits- Pre-IPO stock options
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance (Arbor covers 90% for employees)
- Basic life insurance fully covered
- Health savings account (HSA) with matching
- Flexible savings account (FSA)
- Unlimited PTO
- 12+ company holidays, including Earth Day!
- 401(k)
- Commuter benefits
- Annual learning and development stipend
- And more!
Base Pay: $155,000 - $175,000 USD/year. The salary is subject to the applicant's skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location.
