Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Washington, D.C.

Are you a forward-thinking leader with expertise in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and robotics? We are seeking a Director of UAS & Robotics to oversee and innovate cutting-edge technologies in Washington, D.C. This is a unique opportunity to lead in a fast-evolving industry, shaping the future of autonomous systems. If you are passionate about technological advancements, strategic leadership, and operational efficiency, this role is an ideal fit for you.

Lead the Future of UAS & Robotics in Washington, D.C.

A leading organization in Washington, D.C. is searching for a Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics to take charge of their operations and technological innovations in the UAS field. The successful candidate will have significant experience in UAS and robotics management, as well as a deep understanding of the latest advancements in autonomous systems. This is a prime opportunity to drive cutting-edge projects and lead a talented team towards shaping the future of unmanned technologies. If you’re ready to make a monumental impact in a rapidly advancing industry, this is your chance.

Key Responsibilities of the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics

Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute a visionary strategy for the UAS and robotics division, aligning with industry advancements and organizational goals. Drive innovation, oversee research and development (R&D) initiatives, and ensure the company remains a leader in autonomous systems technology.

Technological Innovation & Development: Lead the development and deployment of cutting-edge UAS and robotics technologies. Guide the R&D team in creating and enhancing systems that meet evolving market demands while adhering to safety and regulatory standards. Foster collaboration across engineering, operations, and research teams to ensure continuous innovation.

Operational Management: Oversee all operational functions related to UAS and robotics, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and safety. Implement best practices in manufacturing, testing, and quality control, ensuring the organization maintains the highest standards of operational excellence.

Revenue Growth & Profitability: Identify growth opportunities within the UAS and robotics sectors, develop new revenue streams, and enhance market share. Drive commercial success while ensuring that cost-efficiency, profitability, and innovation remain key priorities.

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure full compliance with UAS and robotics industry regulations, safety standards, and corporate governance. Proactively manage risks related to technology, safety, and legal compliance, minimizing potential liabilities while ensuring operational continuity.

Team Leadership & Talent Development: Build and lead a high-performance team of UAS and robotics engineers, researchers, and specialists. Promote a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability. Attract, retain, and develop top talent to meet the company’s technical and business objectives.

Financial Management: Oversee budgeting, financial forecasting, and capital allocation for UAS and robotics initiatives. Work closely with finance teams to ensure resource optimization, cost control, and financial sustainability in line with organizational goals.

Stakeholder & Investor Relations: Cultivate strong relationships with key stakeholders, including investors, government agencies, and industry partners. Provide regular updates on UAS and robotics performance, progress on R&D initiatives, and strategic direction to secure ongoing support and investment.

Customer & Market Insights: Leverage market research and customer feedback to identify emerging trends and customer needs in the UAS and robotics space. Develop strategies to meet those needs through innovative products, enhanced user experiences, and strategic partnerships.

Supply Chain & Manufacturing Efficiency: Ensure that UAS and robotics components are sourced, manufactured, and distributed effectively. Implement robust supply chain strategies, manage supplier relationships, and optimize inventory to ensure timely delivery of products while maintaining the highest quality standards.

Ethical Leadership & Risk Mitigation: Champion ethical decision-making and responsible technology deployment, ensuring the company maintains a strong reputation within the UAS and robotics industries. Address any potential risks proactively through rigorous testing, legal oversight, and continuous improvement.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics, the client seeks an exceptional leader with a deep understanding of UAS and robotics technologies, capable of driving innovation and strategic growth in this rapidly evolving field. You should be a forward-thinking, results-oriented executive with the ability to navigate the complexities of the UAS and robotics industries while delivering cutting-edge solutions and ensuring operational excellence.

Proven Leadership in UAS & Robotics

The client is looking for an experienced leader with a strong background in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and robotics. You should have a proven track record of successfully managing UAS and robotics operations, leading R&D initiatives, and driving technological advancements.

Strategic Vision for Technological Growth

As the Director, you will need to demonstrate the ability to craft and execute long-term strategies that position the company as a leader in the UAS and robotics sectors. The ideal candidate will have experience identifying emerging market opportunities, advancing product development, and driving operational efficiency.

Strong Technical and Financial Acumen

A deep understanding of both the technical aspects of UAS and robotics, along with the financial know-how to drive profitability and business sustainability, is essential. The client is seeking a leader who can manage budgets, analyze financial data, and optimize resource allocation.

Ability to Lead and Build High-Performing Teams

Leadership is at the core of this role, and the client is looking for a Director who can attract, develop, and retain top talent in UAS and robotics. You should foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability. The ability to build and lead high-performing, cross-disciplinary teams, driving performance while maintaining a focus on talent development, is highly desirable.

Customer-Centric Innovation

A strong focus on customer needs and technological solutions is crucial. The ideal candidate will have experience developing customer-centric products that meet real-world demands in the UAS and robotics sectors. The ability to translate customer insights into actionable business strategies and create innovative, high-quality solutions will be key to success in this role.

Strong Stakeholder and Industry Relations

The client seeks a Director who can effectively engage with investors, government agencies, and key stakeholders in the UAS and robotics industries. You should have the ability to communicate technical information clearly, build trust, and foster strong relationships that ensure ongoing support and investment in the organization’s initiatives.

Commitment to Safety, Compliance, and Operational Excellence

Lastly, the client values a leader who prioritizes safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. You should have a strong understanding of UAS and robotics safety standards, regulatory frameworks, and quality control procedures. Your ability to ensure ethical, compliant, and efficient operations will be critical in maintaining the organization’s leadership position in the market.

FAQs About the Role – Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics

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

As the Director of UAS & Robotics, you will be responsible for developing and executing the strategic vision for UAS and robotics technologies. You will lead R&D initiatives, oversee operations, and manage cross-functional teams to deliver innovative solutions. Key responsibilities include driving technological advancements, ensuring regulatory compliance, managing budgets, and leading the deployment of cutting-edge UAS and robotics systems. You will also work closely with stakeholders to secure investments and develop partnerships for growth.

What qualifications and experience are required for this position?

The ideal candidate should have significant experience in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), robotics, or related technologies, with a strong background in strategic leadership, technology management, and operational execution. Experience in leading R&D efforts, navigating complex regulatory environments, and driving innovation in autonomous systems is essential. A degree in engineering, robotics, or a related field is preferred, and an MBA or advanced management degree is a plus, though not mandatory.

What leadership qualities are essential for this role?

The client is looking for a visionary leader who can inspire and lead teams in a high-tech, fast-paced environment. Key leadership qualities include strategic thinking, innovation, the ability to make data-driven decisions, and excellent communication skills. You should be able to build and foster high-performance teams, drive collaboration, and ensure that the organization remains at the forefront of technological advancements in UAS and robotics. Strong financial acumen, adaptability, and the ability to navigate complex industry regulations are also crucial.

What challenges can I expect in this role?

As the Director of UAS & Robotics, you will face challenges such as evolving technological landscapes, regulatory hurdles, and the rapid pace of innovation. You will need to manage the complexity of developing and deploying cutting-edge systems while ensuring compliance with industry regulations and safety standards. Additionally, balancing cost-efficiency with the need for innovation, maintaining stakeholder engagement, and ensuring operational excellence will be key challenges in this role.

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

The Director of UAS & Robotics is expected to play a critical role in shaping the company’s future by driving technological innovation, expanding product offerings, and exploring new market opportunities in the UAS and robotics sectors. Your leadership will directly influence the company’s growth trajectory, enhancing its competitive edge and market presence, ultimately positioning the organization as a leader in autonomous systems technologies.

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

The company fosters a dynamic, innovation-driven culture where collaboration, creativity, and technical excellence are highly valued. You will be working with a talented team of engineers, researchers, and technology experts, providing a collaborative environment to push the boundaries of UAS and robotics technology. The work environment encourages continuous learning, embraces new ideas, and emphasizes safety, compliance, and operational efficiency in all endeavors.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics, you can expect a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract top-tier talent in the field of autonomous systems and robotics. The remuneration for this role typically includes:

Base Salary

The base salary for the Director of UAS & Robotics varies based on company size, industry standing, and location. In the Washington, D.C. area, a highly competitive base salary typically ranges from $200,000 to $350,000 per year, with larger organizations offering higher salaries based on the scope of responsibility and experience level.

Performance-Based Bonuses

In addition to the base salary, most executive compensation packages include performance-based bonuses. These bonuses are tied to key metrics such as project milestones, innovation delivery, market share growth, and overall operational performance. Performance bonuses can range from 20% to 50% of the base salary, depending on both individual and organizational performance.

Equity & Stock Options

Many companies in the UAS and robotics sectors offer equity-based incentives, including stock options or performance-based stock grants. These incentives are designed to align the interests of the Director with the company’s long-term success. Equity and stock options can become a significant portion of the total compensation package, offering financial rewards as the company grows.

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

Some companies offer long-term incentive plans (LTIPs) or profit-sharing opportunities to encourage sustained growth and leadership. These plans reward executives for continued high performance and focus on the company’s long-term success. Such incentives can be tied to multi-year performance targets or company-wide growth milestones.

Executive Benefits & Perks

As a senior executive, you will be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, which typically includes:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) or pension plans with company contributions
Executive retirement planning
Company-provided vehicles or travel allowances
Wellness programs and access to corporate health services
Expense accounts for business-related activities, networking, and development

Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance

For top candidates with specialized expertise, companies may offer signing bonuses or relocation assistance to attract them to the role. These one-time incentives can range from $30,000 to $100,000, depending on the candidate’s experience, relocation needs, and the company’s position in the market.

Total Compensation Potential

When factoring in the base salary, performance bonuses, stock options, long-term incentives, and executive benefits, total compensation for the Director of UAS & Robotics can range from $350,000 to $700,000 or more annually. High-growth companies, especially those in innovative sectors like UAS and robotics, may offer even more lucrative compensation packages to attract and retain top talent in the industry.

How to Apply

If you are a visionary leader with a strong background in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and robotics, we invite you to apply for the Director of UAS & Robotics position in Washington, D.C. This is a unique opportunity to lead groundbreaking technological initiatives, drive innovation, and shape the future of autonomous systems and robotics.

To apply, please submit your resume along with a cover letter that outlines your experience in leading UAS and robotics technologies, strategic planning, and operational management. Highlight your ability to innovate in the robotics and UAS industries, navigate complex regulatory frameworks, and manage high-performing teams. Showcase your leadership skills in driving technological advancements and achieving business growth within a highly competitive field.

This role offers the chance to make a significant impact in the UAS and robotics sectors, working at the forefront of innovation and technological advancement. If you are ready to take the next step in your leadership career, apply today for the Director of UAS & Robotics role in Washington, D.C.!

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

Job Category: Aerospace

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Washington

Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Washington, D.C.