Director of Advanced Development - Aerial Systems

HavocAI • San Diego, CA

3d

About The Position

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.

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

Nice To Haves

• 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

Responsibilities

• 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

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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed