Careers
BUILD WHATMATTERS
California Drone Systems is assembling a founding team of engineers, operators, manufacturers and unconventional problem solvers. We are building from scratch — and we want people who thrive in that environment.
WE ARE HIRING BUILDERS
CDS is an early-stage defense technology company. That means the work is hard, the problems are real, and the people you work with will define what this company becomes.
We are not looking for people who want a job. We are looking for people who want to build something that matters for American national security.
Open Areas
ENGINEERING
Mechanical, electrical, firmware and systems engineers who want to build unmanned platforms from the ground up. Experience with rapid prototyping, embedded systems, or aerospace structures is a strong signal.
MANUFACTURING
Production engineers, tooling specialists and manufacturing leads who can build a scalable production system from early prototypes. Experience in aerospace, defense, or high-mix low-volume manufacturing preferred.
AUTONOMY & SOFTWARE
Software engineers and autonomy researchers focused on navigation, perception, and mission systems. Experience with ROS, computer vision, or embedded Linux is relevant.
OPERATIONS
Program managers, logistics leads, and operations professionals who can build the infrastructure a scaling defense company needs. Experience in defense programs or high-growth hardware companies preferred.
SUPPLY CHAIN
Sourcing specialists and supply chain engineers who can build a resilient, American-first supply chain for unmanned systems at scale.
What We Look For
WHO THRIVES HERE
BUILDERS FIRST
You make things. You are not comfortable sitting in meetings when there is work to be done.
HIGH OWNERSHIP
You take full responsibility for your work. You do not wait to be told what to do next.
MISSION CLARITY
You understand why this work matters and you do not need to be reminded.
SPEED OVER PERFECTION
You ship, learn, and improve. You do not wait for perfect conditions.
Apply
JOIN CDS
Send your resume and a short note on what you want to build to the address below. No recruiters. No cover letter required — just tell us what you have built and what you want to build next.
CDS is an equal opportunity employer. U.S. persons preferred for roles involving export-controlled technology.