Director of Autonomy, Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Director of Autonomy, Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Join to apply for the Director of Autonomy, Unmanned Aircraft Systems role at TSC
. This remote position (Sierra Vista, AZ; Arlington, VA; or other possible on‑site locations) serves as the singular focal point for systems automation across all UAS Products and Service Solutions. Travel up to 50% annually is required.

• Serving as the lead singular focal point for automation across all UAS Products and Service offerings, translating information at both the technical level and overall business use case while leading multiple parallel technological initiatives.
• Hiring, developing, supervising, and managing a technical team focused on Guidance, Navigation, and Controls Automation spanning the entire system architecture for multiple commercial product lines and field support (Onboard/Offboard Processing, Networked Data, Autopilots, User interfaces, Software, Firmware, Hardware, and more).
• Leading, managing, or conducting data analysis to support time‑sensitive developmental or operational efforts, funneling documented results back into risk management and safety workflows.
• Supporting the development, planning, and execution of test‑related activities required for internal and customer‑driven projects, processes, or gate reviews.
• Acting as a key stakeholder cross‑functionally for the overall execution of experimental or learning experiences in the UAS HIL/SIL, commercial production, customer modification, ground and flight test.
• Drafting and submitting required information to satisfy internal funding requests for IR&D funding.
• Supporting the P&L’s sustainment and development of high‑value business partnerships or relationships, enabling innovations to fuel increased UAS Product & Service sales.
• Actively reinforcing accountability for technological innovations, 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.
• US citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and expressed desire to lead and manage technical efforts while staying active in other general business growth activities requested by the Division Manager.
• Hands‑on experience in software development in a relevant subject matter area:
  Aircraft Guidance Navigation & Control, robotic system guidance, navigation, and control; ground‑ or airborne mission systems; general aerospace flight control or cockpit avionics systems; ground stations; payload control.
• Technical experience to comprehend automation challenges or gaps, guide solutions‑based collaborations, and deliver efficient innovations that enhance overall performance measured by efficiency, safety, and automation levels.
• Experience developing or operating hardware‑in‑the‑loop simulators, testing and troubleshooting HW/SW interfaces, and familiarity with software configuration management tools, version control systems, defect tracking tools, and peer‑review workflows.
• Ability to lead, manage, or individually execute required objectives for the P&L’s success.

• Very diversified experience as a qualified UAS operator, UAS test engineer, UAS test director, UAS software developer/programmer, UAS autopilot developer, or direct experience in UAS proposal/capture management and business development activities.
• Experience and ability to fuel positive morale within cross‑functional teams through servant leadership and accountability.
• Understanding of common pitfalls in organizational growth or scaling organizations, used to mitigate risks and guide teams.

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

Only candidates invited for an interview will be contacted. Employment at TSC is contingent upon a comprehensive background check, security investigation, and drug screening.

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