Director of Autonomy, Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Director of Autonomy, Unmanned Aircraft Systems

TSC is seeking a remote Director of Autonomy located in Sierra Vista, AZ, Arlington, VA, or other possible on‑site locations. The role is the singular focal point for systems automation across all UAS Products and Service Solutions, shaping technology transfer to the market through continuous development, testing, fielding, customer engagement, and sustainment.

Travel up to 50% of the time annually is required.

• Serve as the lead focal point for automation across all UAS products and services, translating technical and business use cases while leading multiple parallel initiatives.
• Hire, develop, supervise, and manage a technical team focused on Guidance, Navigation, and Controls Automation spanning the entire system architecture for multiple commercial product lines and field support.
• Lead data analysis to support development and operational efforts, funneling results into risk management and safety workflows, product support, and future projects.
• Manage the planning and execution of test activities for internal and customer‑driven projects, processes, or gate reviews.
• Serve as a key stakeholder across functions for experimental or learning experiences in UAS HIL/SIL, commercial production, customer modification, ground, and flight test.
• Draft and submit required information to satisfy internal funding requests for IR&D funding.
• Support P&L sustainment and development of high‑value business partnerships to fuel UAS product and service sales.
• Actively reinforce accountability for technological innovation, product quality, and service offerings.

• BS degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Aerospace, Controls engineering, or another relevant discipline, plus a minimum of ten years of direct experience with UAS technology.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain, maintain, and renew a DoD Security Clearance.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and desire to manage technical efforts while staying actively involved in general business growth activities.
• Experience with development and operation of new UAS technology, operational transfer to the market beyond marketing demonstrations, and hands‑on software development in relevant subject areas.
• Technical expertise to comprehend automation challenges, guide solution‑based collaborations, and deliver efficient innovations that enhance overall performance.
• Experience developing or operating hardware‑in‑the‑loop simulators, testing, and troubleshooting hardware‑software interfaces, and familiarity with configuration management, version control, defect tracking, and peer‑review workflows.
• Ability to lead, manage, or individually execute required objectives for P&L success.

• Extensive experience as a qualified UAS operator, test engineer, test director, software developer/programmer, autopilot developer, or direct involvement in UAS proposal/capture management and business development.
• Ability to foster positive morale within cross‑functional teams through servant leadership and accountability.
• Understanding of common pitfalls in organizational growth and scaling, and experience mitigating risks and guiding teams.

TSC offers a stable work environment, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefit package, including ESOP participation, 401(k) plan, flexible work schedules, tuition reimbursement, co‑sponsored health plan, paid leave, and more.

Only candidates invited to interview will be contacted. Employment at TSC is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check, security investigation, and drug screening.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60–1.4(a), 60–300.5(a), and 60–741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on veteran or disability status, and against all individuals based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or inquiries about compensation. Covered prime contractors and subcontractors are required to take affirmative action to employ and advance individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.