Director of Advanced Development - Aerial Systems
About Us:
Collaborative autonomy is how self-tasking teams of machines will solve hard human problems, and HavocAI is an unquestioned leader in collaborative autonomy. We set the standard for autonomous surface vessels for a wide range of defense and commercial maritime missions. Success requires us to grow quickly, and we’re looking for teammates who are passionate about solving hard problems, about pushing the envelope, and about preventing conflict and saving lives. Ambition is welcome to apply within.
About the Role
HavocAI is seeking a Director of Advanced Development – Aerial Systems to lead the design, prototyping, and flight validation of next-generation autonomous aerial platforms.
In this role, you will lead Havoc’s Advanced Aerial Development Team, architecting autonomy-native fixed-wing and/or VTOL platforms designed from the ground up for collaborative autonomy and seamless integration with HavocOS. You will drive the full lifecycle of development—from concept and architecture through prototype build cycles and first flight testing.
This position requires deep aerospace engineering expertise, strong technical leadership, and a bias toward rapid experimentation and iteration.
Key Responsibilities
Platform Architecture
Architect next-generation autonomy-native fixed-wing and/or VTOL aerial platforms
Define airframe configurations optimized for autonomy missions and scalable production
Aerodynamics & Flight Systems
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
Prototype Development
Lead rapid prototype build cycles with approximately 6-month iteration loops
Oversee development from concept through first flight and flight testing
Flight Test & Validation
Define and approve flight envelope expansion and validation plans
Ensure safe and effective progression through flight testing milestones
Cross-Team Integration
Work closely with autonomy, compute, and software teams to ensure tight HavocOS integration
Align platform capabilities with autonomy system requirements
Scalable Platform Design
Design aerial platforms capable of scaling to production volumes of 1,000+ units
Balance performance, manufacturability, and operational reliability
Qualifications
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
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with VTOL platform design
Experience integrating autonomy or AI-driven flight systems
Background in defense or advanced aerospace programs
Familiarity with rapid prototyping and experimental flight programs
Experience transitioning prototypes to scalable production platforms
Success in the First 12 Months
Delivery of two flying prototype platforms
Successful integration with HavocOS autonomy stack
Demonstrated multi-vehicle autonomous flight operations
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
Our Values:
Innovation: We are driven to break new ground. Every day presents an opportunity to challenge the status quo, think boldly, and deliver advanced solutions that transform the future of defense technology.
Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency, accountability, and trust in all our actions and partnerships.
Mission-Driven: We are focused on achieving impactful outcomes that align with our core mission—protecting lives through innovation.
Forward-Leaning: We continuously seek out new opportunities and remain at the forefront of technological advancements. We embrace change and anticipate the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and creativity.
Ownership of All Tasks: At HavocAI, no problem is too complex or too trivial. We believe that greatness comes from tackling the hardest challenges, but also in handling the smallest, sometimes thankless, tasks with the same level of commitment and care.
Servant Leadership: We lead by serving others, whether it’s supporting our employees, partners, or the broader community. Empowering those around us is key to achieving long-term success and making a lasting impact.
HavocAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.