Senior Product Manager Unmanned Systems

Location:

Hybrid (Chicago, IL; San Francisco, CA)

Our client is building innovative satellite communication devices that connect people with its integrated software solutions for remote connectivity, safety, and exploration.

As the Senior Product Manager, you will bring your start‑up experience and knowledge of unmanned systems to the team. You will own the end‑of‑the‑end product lifecycle for hardware devices, working directly with engineering teams to prototype, iterate, and deliver high‑quality products. You will define the product vision and strategy, but also roll up your sleeves to ensure the hardware and embedded systems meet customer needs.

• Lead product development from concept through production, including prototyping, testing, and iteration of hardware devices.
• Unmanned product portfolio end‑to‑end, from early requirements through field deployment.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, embedded, and firmware engineers to deliver reliable, rugged devices.
• Ensure smooth integration of embedded systems and supporting mobile/cloud software.
• Drive product specifications, trade‑offs, and feature prioritization based on customer feedback, field testing, and market trends.
• Own product roadmaps, schedules, and budgets in a fast‑paced startup environment.
• Act as a hands‑on leader of the engineers while actively participating in technical problem‑solving and execution.
• Engage with customers and partners to translate real‑world requirements into actionable product decisions.
• Coordinate integration efforts with third‑party unmanned platform providers and government end users.

• US Citizen or Permanent Resident status required
• 6+ years of hardware product management and hands‑on engineering leadership in startups, robotics, IoT, or aerospace/defense required
• 5+ years working with autonomous platforms, sensors, and robotics; new satellite constellations; and diverse networks required
• Experience with cutting‑edge satellite communication technology
• Experience with client‑facing field operations and troubleshooting
• Experience developing and executing proposals for US government‑funded programs (SBIR, APFIT, CRADA, etc.) a strong plus.
• Proven experience managing product development in a startup environment.
• Deep hands‑on experience with unmanned systems (e.g. Group 1-5 UAS).
• Familiarity with SDK development and API‑based integration strategies for embedded systems.
• Proven experience managing end‑to‑end product development for devices, ideally including RF, sensors, or embedded systems.
• Experience in embedded software or system integration, ideally for IoT, satellite, or uncrewed systems.
• Strong understanding of prototype, pre‑production, and production processes, including BOM management and vendor coordination.
• Comfortable working in small, agile teams, making rapid decisions and taking full ownership of outcomes.
• Excellent communication skills, able to translate technical concepts for internal and external stakeholders.