Mach is a defense manufacturing company that builds munitions to help the United States win future wars. Backed by $85M in funding from top venture firms, our small lean team ideates, designs, manufactures, and sells cutting-edge weapons to the Department of Defense.

Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 120 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.Mach is an engineering-obsessed team pursuing well-guided product

The Role

The Head of Human Resources will be a strategic leader responsible for shaping and executing Mach Industries’ people operations, with a focus on human resources, culture, leadership development, talent acquisition and compliance with California HR laws and DoD requirements. This role requires a proven track record in defense technology and startup environments, a deep understanding of cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced setting. The ideal candidate will bring enthusiasm for building a strong organizational culture and driving leadership buy-in at all levels. The right person for the role will be a hands-on professional who can effectively address strategic and tactical challenges to develop a proactive human resources function to support the company’s ambitious growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the HR function, including employee relations, performance management, leadership development, compliance, and organizational design with a focus on scalability and mission alignment

• Build and execute operational HR systems and policies (onboarding, performance reviews, surveys) that scale with organizational growth.

• Lead the development and maintenance of equitable compensation and benefits programs, including equity-based structures.

• Drive employee relations initiatives, providing support and leadership coaching to foster a positive, high performance culture and support mission accomplishment.
  Partner with manufacturing and engineering teams to align HR initiatives with operational needs, driving seamless collaboration across departments.

• Ensure full compliance with California labor laws, federal regulations, and industry-specific standards in defense and aerospace.

• Serve as a strategic partner with leadership in workforce planning, organizational scaling, and change management.

• Partner with recruiting functions to attract top-tier technical and mission-driven talent in competitive markets. Develop and execute effective onboarding and employee retention initiatives.

• Establish frameworks for performance management, employee engagement, and management coaching across the organization.

• Thrive in a fast-paced, ever-evolving workplace, adapting quickly to changing priorities and driving HR solutions that support business agility.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field; Master’s degree or SHRM-SCP/SPHR certification is a plus.

• 5+ years of progressive HR leadership experience in fast-paced, high-growth organizations.

• Ready, willing and able to play a hands-on role in addressing tactical, HR challenges with the ability to develop an effective, proactive human resources strategy.

• Demonstrated ability to build HR systems from the ground up, have proven background in talent acquisition and maintenance and manage teams through scaling.

• Expertise in California employment law and federal HR compliance.

• Prior experience in defense, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, or mission-critical tech preferred.

• Strong communication and leadership skills with a track record of guiding executive teams.

• Experience establishing and maintaining benefits programs, including health, retirement, and equity offerings, to support employee well-being and retention.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience working in DoD-related HR environments and managing security clearance processes.

• Proven success in startup environments—scaling from early stage to mid-size or larger while preserving mission clarity. Track record of making an impact with limited resources.

• Deep knowledge of equity compensation structures, benefits, and retention strategies in high-tech environments.

• Expertise in talent acquisition for highly specialized and technical roles.

• Ability to mentor leaders and develop high-impact team dynamics in an intense, mission-oriented workplace

• A law degree with an emphasis in HR or employment law is a strong bonus.
  

Benefits at Mach Industries

• Competitive Compensation Package: Includes equity grants as part of total compensation.

• Platinum-Level Healthcare: 100% coverage for employees and 90% for dependents.

• Generous Time Off: 13 company holidays, 10-day holiday shutdown in December, and competitive PTO policies.

• Daily Meals & Snacks: Catered lunches, fully stocked kitchens, and premium coffee bar.

• 401(k) with 5% Match: Company-sponsored plan to support long-term financial wellness.

• Relocation Assistance: Support available for eligible hires transitioning to join the team.
  

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!