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Founding Manufacturing Engineer (Gigacasting / Die Casting), Special Projects Division

Hadrian

Hadrian

Los Angeles, CA, USA
Posted on May 16, 2025

Hadrian - Manufacturing the Future

Hadrian is building autonomous factories that help aerospace and defense companies make rockets, jets, and satellites 10x faster and 2x cheaper. Our CEO, Chris Power, discusses the importance of what we're building in this video.

We are a lean but mighty team (and growing!) people that are passionate about building critical infrastructure to support the nation and the advancement of humanity.

We've raised >$200m to achieve this vision, with multiple rounds from Lux Capital, A16Z, Founders Fund, Construct Capital, Caffeinated Capital and more.

We use AI and Robotics to automate and scale factories that are globally cost competitive and future-proof from the dramatic skilled labor shortage that is facing the Advanced Industrial Base.

Hadrian works with startups, Primes and Tier 1/2s in all markets to cost-down, scale or otherwise enable them to hit production rates on critical programs in Rocketry, Satellites, Shipbuilding, Commercial and Military aircraft and other core, mission critical industries.

The Role

You will be a founding member of Hadrian’s new Special Projects division, collaborating directly with the CEO and engineering leadership. This division is responsible for focusing on ambitious R&D projects and serving as engineering experts on new business opportunities.

This Foundational role will lead and develop advanced metal casting processes within a high-performance manufacturing environment. This individual will serve as the primary technical authority in casting, and supporting the design, optimization, and implementation of scalable solutions across multiple industries, including aerospace, automotive, maritime, and defense. The ideal candidate brings deep technical knowledge and hands-on experience to support a growing, innovative manufacturing operation.

Your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:

  • Lead the design, validation, and continuous improvement of die-cast and Gigapress manufacturing processes.

  • Partner with R&D, quality, and production teams to implement advanced casting methods and defect-reduction strategies.

  • Drive process automation and simulation efforts to enable scalable, high-rate manufacturing.

  • Provide technical guidance across casting applications, from prototyping to full-scale production.

  • Support hands-on implementation and occasional travel to client or partner facilities as needed.

What We’re Looking For:

  • Deep understanding of casting, Gigapress, and associated manufacturing workflows.

  • Demonstrated expertise in developing and scaling casting processes in high-performance environments.

  • Experience leading long-term R&D initiatives with cross-functional collaboration.

  • Ability to operate effectively in dynamic, fast-paced production settings.

  • Strong communication and leadership skills to influence technical and operational teams.

What will set you apart:

  • Advanced degree or formal education in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Metallurgy, or related disciplines.

  • Proficiency in Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and GD&T, with the ability to assess technical trade-offs.

  • Hands-on experience working across multiple business functions such as quality, design, automation, and controls.

  • Knowledge of high-performance alloys, including aluminum, titanium, steel, and nickel-based superalloys.

  • Prior leadership or consulting experience in aerospace, defense, or industrial manufacturing settings.

Benefits:

  • 100% coverage of platinum medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for employees

  • 401k

  • Relocation stipend if you’re moving from outside of LA

  • Flexible vacation policy

It is the policy of Hadrian Automation, Inc. to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.