Director of Advanced Development – Aerial Systems
HavocAI
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Hybrid
Location: San Diego • California • United States
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Salary
💰 $200,000 - $225,000 per year
Job Level
About the role
- Architect next-generation autonomy-native fixed-wing and/or VTOL aerial platforms
- Define airframe configurations optimized for autonomy missions and scalable production
- Lead aerodynamic trade studies and configuration selection
- Oversee propulsion system integration and performance optimization
- Define and maintain weight budgets, center-of-gravity discipline, and structural margins
- Lead rapid prototype build cycles with approximately 6-month iteration loops
- Oversee development from concept through first flight and flight testing
- Define and approve flight envelope expansion and validation plans
- Ensure safe and effective progression through flight testing milestones
- Work closely with autonomy, compute, and software teams to ensure tight HavocOS integration
- Align platform capabilities with autonomy system requirements
- Design aerial platforms capable of scaling to production volumes of 1,000+ units
- Balance performance, manufacturability, and operational reliability
Requirements
- 8+ years of experience designing UAVs, drones, or experimental aircraft
- Deep expertise in aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, and aircraft design
- Experience bringing an aerial platform from concept to first flight
- Strong systems engineering mindset and ability to manage complex tradeoffs
- Proven ability to operate in fast-paced, ambiguous environments
- Experience leading small, high-performance engineering teams
- Passion for rapid iteration and real-world deployment
Benefits
- 100% Employer paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your families
- Life Insurance (Employer Paid)
- Ability to participate in the companies 401k program (Matching)
- Unlimited PTO policy with an enforced 2 week minimum
- Equity Package
- Work / Home Office Stipend
- Global Entry
- 16 Week Paid Parental Leave
- Monthly Health and Wellness Stipend
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills & Tools
aerodynamicsaircraft designpropulsion systemsUAV designVTOL designfixed-wing designweight budgetingflight testingrapid prototypingsystems engineering
Soft Skills
leadershipsystems engineering mindsetcomplex tradeoff managementadaptabilityteam managementproblem-solvingcommunicationcollaborationpassion for iterationoperational reliability