Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Los Angeles, CA

We are seeking a visionary and experienced Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics to lead innovative projects and strategic initiatives in Los Angeles, CA. This is an exciting opportunity for a leader with a passion for autonomous systems, robotics, and aerial technologies to drive advancements in a fast-evolving industry. If you have a proven track record in UAS, robotics, and leading high-performing teams, this role offers a unique platform to influence the future of the sector.

Lead Innovation in Unmanned Systems and Robotics

As the Director of UAS & Robotics in Los Angeles, you will be responsible for spearheading the development and deployment of unmanned systems and robotics technologies. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in unmanned aircraft systems, robotics engineering, and product development. You will lead cross-functional teams, ensure operational excellence, and shape the company’s strategy to maintain its competitive edge in this rapidly expanding field. This is your opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation in one of the most exciting industries today.

Key Responsibilities of the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Los Angeles, CA

Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a cutting-edge vision for the company’s UAS and robotics initiatives. Align the technological roadmap with market trends, driving innovation and ensuring that products and services stay ahead of the competition in a rapidly evolving field.

Product Development & Innovation: Lead the design, development, and deployment of UAS and robotics technologies. Oversee product lifecycle management, ensuring that all systems meet industry standards and address customer needs. Foster a culture of continuous innovation, pushing the boundaries of what autonomous systems can achieve.

Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration: Lead a cross-disciplinary team of engineers, product managers, and other stakeholders to execute on complex projects. Build a collaborative culture that encourages innovation and excellence, ensuring that all teams work seamlessly together to achieve company goals.

Operational Excellence: Manage operational processes related to UAS and robotics technologies, ensuring they are efficient, scalable, and aligned with strategic goals. Develop systems to improve productivity, ensure quality, and reduce costs across product development, testing, and deployment.

Technology Strategy & Roadmap: Drive the strategic direction for the company’s UAS and robotics technologies. Define and execute a roadmap for future product development, ensuring alignment with market needs, customer requirements, and technological advancements.

Partnership & Client Relations: Build and nurture relationships with key partners, including government agencies, commercial enterprises, and research institutions. Work closely with clients to understand their needs and integrate customer feedback into product development.

Market & Competitive Analysis: Stay abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and competitor developments. Conduct market research to identify opportunities for growth and ensure that the company’s offerings remain competitive in a fast-paced market.

Financial Oversight: Collaborate with the finance team to develop budgets, forecasts, and investment strategies for UAS and robotics projects. Ensure cost-effective execution of technology initiatives while meeting financial targets.

Regulatory Compliance & Safety Management: Ensure that all UAS and robotics operations comply with regulatory requirements and safety standards. Lead the company’s efforts to remain in compliance with both domestic and international aviation and robotics laws.

Risk Management & Problem Solving: Identify and mitigate technological, operational, and regulatory risks associated with UAS and robotics systems. Proactively address challenges, ensuring smooth project execution and operational continuity.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics, the client is seeking a visionary leader with deep expertise in robotics and unmanned systems who can drive technological innovation, lead cross-functional teams, and steer the company’s growth in this cutting-edge field. You should be a strategic, results-oriented executive capable of navigating the complexities of robotics and UAS while ensuring the delivery of world-class products and services.

Proven Expertise in UAS & Robotics

The client is looking for a highly experienced leader with a proven track record in unmanned aircraft systems and robotics technologies. Your background should include a strong understanding of both the technical and operational aspects of these systems, with direct experience in product development, testing, and deployment.

Visionary Leader with Strategic Insight

As the Director of UAS & Robotics, you will be expected to craft and execute a long-term strategic vision that drives innovation, product differentiation, and competitive advantage. The ideal candidate will have experience in building and scaling cutting-edge technologies, identifying new opportunities in the UAS and robotics markets, and maintaining a forward-thinking mindset to ensure the company stays ahead of industry trends.

Strong Technical and Operational Acumen

The client values leaders who combine technical expertise with operational excellence. You should be well-versed in managing the development lifecycle of UAS and robotics technologies while ensuring that products are not only technologically advanced but also operationally efficient.

Exceptional Leadership and Team Building

A key aspect of this role is leading and inspiring a diverse team of engineers, developers, and project managers. The client seeks a leader who can build and maintain high-performing teams, foster a culture of collaboration, and drive innovation. Your ability to attract, develop, and retain top talent, while ensuring strong performance and alignment with organizational goals, will be a crucial component of success.

Client-Focused Mindset with Industry Insight

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of market demands, customer needs, and the ability to translate them into actionable product strategies. Your experience in working with clients and stakeholders, from government agencies to commercial entities, will be vital in ensuring the company’s products and services meet or exceed customer expectations.

Strong Stakeholder Engagement and Communication

The client is looking for a leader who can effectively communicate and engage with internal and external stakeholders, including investors, customers, and regulatory bodies. Your ability to present complex technical concepts in a clear, compelling manner, as well as build relationships with key partners, will be essential for the company’s continued growth and success in the UAS and robotics sectors.

Commitment to Compliance, Safety, and Risk Management

Finally, the client values a leader who prioritizes regulatory compliance, safety standards, and risk management. You should be well-versed in the legal and safety regulations governing UAS and robotics technologies, ensuring that all projects meet the required standards and operate in a safe and ethical manner.

FAQs About the Role – Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Los Angeles, CA

What are the key responsibilities of the Director of UAS & Robotics in this role?

As the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics, you will be responsible for developing and executing the strategic vision for UAS and robotics technologies, leading product development, and overseeing operational execution. You will drive innovation, manage cross-functional teams, ensure compliance with industry standards, and maintain financial performance. Additionally, you will foster relationships with key stakeholders, including investors, partners, and regulatory bodies, to ensure the company stays at the forefront of technological advancements in unmanned systems and robotics.

What qualifications and experience are required for this position?

The ideal candidate should have substantial experience in leading UAS and robotics initiatives, ideally in an executive or senior leadership role. A strong technical background in robotics, unmanned systems, or aerospace engineering is essential, with experience in product development, operations, and R&D. Leadership experience in managing large teams, delivering cutting-edge products, and driving operational efficiencies is highly valued. A relevant advanced degree, such as in engineering or technology management, is preferred but not mandatory.

What leadership qualities are essential for this role?

The client seeks a visionary leader with strong technical expertise and the ability to inspire and motivate cross-disciplinary teams. You should possess excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning skills, as well as a deep understanding of the UAS and robotics markets. Strong communication skills, the ability to build relationships with key stakeholders, and an innovative mindset are critical for success. You should be adaptable, forward-thinking, and able to navigate complex technical and regulatory challenges.

What challenges can I expect in this role?

In this role, you will face challenges such as maintaining competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving industry, managing the complexity of integrating cutting-edge technologies, and navigating regulatory hurdles related to UAS and robotics. Additionally, balancing innovation with operational efficiency, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards will require ongoing attention. Leading the company through periods of rapid technological advancement while ensuring that products meet customer needs will also be key challenges.

What is the expected impact of the Director of UAS & Robotics on the company’s growth?

The Director of UAS & Robotics will play a crucial role in shaping the company’s future through technological innovation and strategic leadership. Your ability to drive the development and deployment of industry-leading UAS and robotics products will directly influence the company’s market positioning, profitability, and long-term success. The role is essential in ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of innovation and continues to meet the evolving needs of customers in this dynamic field.

What is the company’s culture and work environment like?

The company fosters a collaborative, innovative, and forward-thinking work environment. They prioritize technical excellence, continuous learning, and a culture of accountability and creativity. You will be joining a dynamic and passionate team dedicated to shaping the future of unmanned systems and robotics. The work environment encourages open communication, knowledge sharing, and the pursuit of groundbreaking solutions to complex challenges.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics in Los Angeles, CA, you can expect a highly competitive and rewarding compensation package that reflects your experience and expertise in this innovative field. The remuneration for this role typically includes:

Base Salary

The base salary for the Director of UAS & Robotics varies based on company size, revenue, and market position. In leading technology firms, the annual base salary for this position typically ranges from $150,000 to $300,000, with larger or more established companies offering salaries at the higher end of this range.

Performance-Based Bonuses

In addition to the base salary, most compensation packages for this role include performance-based bonuses, which are tied to key business and technical milestones such as the successful launch of new products, technology advancements, market growth, and operational efficiency. These bonuses can range from 20% to 50% of the base salary, depending on individual and company performance.

Equity & Stock Options

Many companies in the UAS and robotics sector offer equity-based incentives to align executive compensation with long-term company success. These may include stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or performance shares, which allow you to share in the company’s growth and profitability. Equity grants can form a significant portion of the overall compensation package, especially for high-growth companies.

Profit-Sharing & Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)

Some companies offer profit-sharing programs or Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs) that reward sustained performance over multiple years. These incentives are designed to encourage long-term strategic focus and reward you for contributing to the company’s overall success. Profit-sharing or LTIP payouts can provide additional financial rewards based on the company’s performance and profitability.

Executive Benefits & Perks

As a senior executive in this role, you will be entitled to a comprehensive benefits package that typically includes:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) or pension plans with company contributions
Executive retirement plans
Company-provided vehicles or travel allowances
Executive wellness programs
Expense accounts for business-related travel, conferences, and networking opportunities

Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance

For highly sought-after candidates, the company may offer signing bonuses or relocation assistance packages. These one-time incentives can range from $20,000 to $100,000, depending on the candidate’s experience and the company’s location.

Total Compensation Potential

When factoring in base salary, performance bonuses, equity incentives, and executive benefits, total compensation for the Director of UAS & Robotics can range from $200,000 to over $500,000 annually. In high-growth or publicly traded companies, the total compensation potential may exceed this range, especially when equity incentives and long-term incentives are taken into account.

How to Apply

If you are a visionary leader with a proven track record in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and robotics, we invite you to apply for the Director of UAS & Robotics role in Los Angeles, CA. This is a unique opportunity to lead cutting-edge technological advancements, drive innovation, and shape the future of unmanned systems and robotics in a rapidly evolving industry.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience in UAS and robotics leadership, product development, technology innovation, and team management. Highlight your ability to oversee large-scale operations, drive strategic growth, and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. Additionally, include examples of how you have led cross-functional teams to deliver complex technological solutions and advanced robotic systems.

This role offers a high-impact career opportunity where you will play a key role in advancing the company’s technological portfolio, driving operational excellence, and positioning the organization as an industry leader. Apply today to take the next step in your executive career as the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics in Los Angeles, CA!

For more information or to explore similar opportunities, visit our Robotics & UAS Executive Recruiters Page.

Job Category: Aerospace

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Los Angeles

Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Los Angeles, CA