VP of Aerospace Robotics – Boston, MA

Are you an innovative leader with a passion for cutting-edge robotics and aerospace technology? We are seeking a Vice President (VP) of Aerospace Robotics to drive strategy, innovation, and execution at a pioneering aerospace company based in Boston, MA. This is a rare opportunity to lead groundbreaking projects at the intersection of robotics, AI, and next-gen aerospace systems. If you’re driven by technical excellence and bold vision, this role is made for you.

Lead the Future of Aerospace Robotics in Boston

A trailblazing aerospace firm in Boston, MA is searching for a Vice President (VP) of Aerospace Robotics to spearhead advanced engineering initiatives and shape the future of autonomous flight systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in robotics, aerospace engineering, and executive leadership. If you excel in leading multidisciplinary teams, pushing technological boundaries, and delivering mission-critical solutions, this is your chance to lead in one of the most innovative sectors in aerospace.

Key Responsibilities of the Vice President (VP) of Aerospace Robotics – Boston, MA

Strategic Vision & Innovation Leadership:
Define and execute a forward-looking strategy for aerospace robotics aligned with emerging technologies and mission-critical objectives. Champion innovation in autonomous systems, robotic control architectures, and AI-driven aerospace solutions to ensure technological leadership.

Advanced Engineering Oversight:
Lead the development and integration of cutting-edge robotic systems for aerospace applications, including satellite servicing, unmanned aerial systems, and space exploration. Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure design excellence, rigorous testing, and mission readiness.

Program & Product Development:
Oversee full lifecycle management of robotics programs—from concept and prototyping to deployment and sustainment. Ensure all projects meet scope, schedule, and budget goals while maintaining the highest standards of safety and reliability.

Cross-Functional Leadership:
Coordinate across engineering, R&D, manufacturing, quality assurance, and mission operations teams to drive alignment, streamline processes, and foster collaboration. Act as a key liaison between technical experts and executive leadership.

Team Development & Talent Acquisition:
Build, mentor, and inspire a world-class team of roboticists, aerospace engineers, and software developers. Promote a culture of innovation, continuous learning, and high performance across all technical and operational units.

Industry & Government Engagement:
Serve as the technical and strategic interface with government agencies (e.g., NASA, DoD), commercial partners, and academic institutions. Represent the company in consortiums, conferences, and strategic alliances within the aerospace and robotics sectors.

Financial & Operational Stewardship:
Collaborate with executive leadership on budgeting, forecasting, and resource planning. Identify cost-saving opportunities, ensure ROI on engineering investments, and drive capital-efficient growth across robotics programs.

Technology Roadmapping & IP Strategy:
Develop long-term technology roadmaps to maintain competitive advantage. Oversee intellectual property strategy, patent filings, and technology licensing efforts to protect innovation and drive business value.

Compliance & Risk Mitigation:
Ensure adherence to aerospace standards, regulatory requirements (ITAR, FAA, etc.), and safety protocols. Proactively identify and mitigate technical and operational risks to ensure mission assurance and regulatory compliance.

Customer-Centric Solutions:
Engage with end-users, aerospace customers, and mission operators to gather feedback and translate needs into viable robotic solutions. Drive user-focused design thinking to improve system performance, usability, and customer satisfaction.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Vice President (VP) of Aerospace Robotics, the client is searching for an innovative and forward-thinking executive who excels at leading complex engineering initiatives, delivering mission-critical technologies, and pushing the boundaries of aerospace robotics. You should be a strategic, hands-on leader with the technical depth and leadership presence to drive transformational change in a high-tech environment.

Proven Leadership in Aerospace Robotics

The client is looking for a seasoned professional with deep expertise in robotics, aerospace systems, or advanced autonomous technologies. A track record of successfully leading engineering programs, developing next-generation robotic solutions, and delivering results in highly regulated environments is essential. Experience with aerospace missions, unmanned systems, or satellite robotics is highly valued.

Visionary Thinker with a Strategic Mindset

You must be capable of crafting and executing a technology roadmap that supports long-term innovation and organizational growth. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a keen ability to anticipate industry trends, identify market opportunities, and align technical development with business objectives. A history of translating strategic vision into actionable plans is critical.

Technical Mastery and Innovation Leadership

The client is seeking a leader with deep technical acumen in robotics, controls, AI/ML integration, or aerospace hardware/software systems. You should be comfortable diving into the technical details while also guiding high-level decision-making. Your ability to lead innovation and drive R&D initiatives will be a major differentiator.

Operational Excellence and Program Execution

You must demonstrate strong operational leadership—overseeing program delivery, managing risk, and ensuring engineering excellence across complex, multidisciplinary teams. Experience in systems integration, product development, and certification processes within aerospace or defense sectors is a must.

Team Building and Talent Development

The client values leaders who can attract, develop, and inspire top-tier technical talent. You should have a strong background in mentoring engineering teams, fostering collaboration across departments, and promoting a culture of accountability, creativity, and continuous improvement.

Stakeholder, Partner & Government Engagement

You should be adept at building relationships with external partners, regulatory agencies, and government entities such as NASA, the Department of Defense, or commercial aerospace clients. The ability to clearly communicate technical strategies and progress to executives, stakeholders, and investors is highly desired.

Financial Acumen & Resource Management

While technical leadership is critical, strong business instincts are also essential. The client is looking for a VP who can manage engineering budgets, allocate resources effectively, and deliver ROI on technology investments. Experience with proposal development, grant funding, or cost modeling for aerospace systems is a plus.

Commitment to Compliance & Mission Assurance

A solid understanding of aerospace safety standards, ITAR compliance, and risk management frameworks is necessary. You should be experienced in overseeing regulatory alignment and ensuring that all systems meet mission-critical reliability and safety requirements.

FAQs About the Role – Vice President (VP) of Aerospace Robotics – Boston, MA

1. What are the key responsibilities of the VP in this role?
As the Vice President (VP) of Aerospace Robotics, you will lead the development, integration, and deployment of cutting-edge robotics systems for aerospace applications. This includes overseeing R&D programs, guiding technical innovation, ensuring compliance with industry standards, managing cross-functional engineering teams, and driving collaboration with government agencies, commercial partners, and internal stakeholders. You will also be responsible for delivering complex projects on time and within budget while supporting long-term strategic growth.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in robotics, aerospace systems, or autonomous technologies, with at least 10–15 years of leadership experience in a high-tech engineering environment. A Master’s or Ph.D. in Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Proven experience in managing multidisciplinary teams, delivering aerospace hardware/software systems, and working with entities like NASA, DoD, or FAA is highly valued.

3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?
The client is seeking a visionary leader with a deep technical foundation and strong strategic thinking abilities. You should be skilled in managing high-performing engineering teams, fostering innovation, and navigating complex regulatory and stakeholder landscapes. Strong communication, decision-making, and team-building skills are essential, as is the ability to inspire trust and alignment across internal and external partners.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?
This role comes with the challenge of leading innovation in a highly regulated and rapidly evolving aerospace sector. You will face technical complexities, budget constraints, aggressive timelines, and regulatory hurdles. Balancing technical ambition with practical execution while ensuring mission assurance and compliance will be key to success.

5. What is the expected impact of the VP on the company’s growth?
As VP of Aerospace Robotics, your leadership will be instrumental in shaping the company’s robotics roadmap, enhancing product competitiveness, and establishing the company as a leader in next-generation aerospace technologies. Your strategic decisions and technical oversight will directly contribute to revenue growth, customer satisfaction, and long-term market differentiation.

6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?
The company promotes a collaborative, innovation-driven, and mission-focused culture. You’ll work in a fast-paced environment alongside some of the brightest minds in aerospace and robotics. The organization values transparency, continuous learning, and a shared commitment to technological excellence and impact.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Vice President (VP) of Aerospace Robotics in Boston, MA, you can expect a highly competitive compensation package tailored to reflect your seniority, specialized expertise, and the critical nature of your leadership within a high-tech, innovation-driven sector. The remuneration for this role typically includes the following components:

1. Base Salary

The base salary for a VP in the aerospace and robotics field is influenced by experience, scope of responsibility, and company size. For this executive-level position, the annual base salary typically ranges between $220,000 and $350,000, with top-tier firms or government contractors potentially offering more.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

Incentive-based bonuses are a significant part of total compensation. These bonuses are tied to key performance metrics such as project delivery milestones, R&D innovation goals, team leadership, contract acquisition, and financial performance. Annual bonuses typically range from 20% to 50% of the base salary, and in high-performance years, could exceed that range.

Depending on whether the company is publicly traded, venture-backed, or privately held, equity compensation may include stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or profit-sharing plans. These long-term incentives are designed to align your contributions with company success and can significantly increase overall earnings, especially in high-growth or IPO-ready organizations.

4. Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)

LTIPs may be offered to reward sustained performance over multiple years. These plans are tied to strategic objectives such as scaling operations, securing key aerospace contracts, or achieving technical innovation milestones. Payouts can come in the form of deferred cash, equity, or performance-based awards.

5. Executive Benefits & Perks

As a senior executive, you will also receive a comprehensive suite of executive-level benefits, including:

Premium health, dental, and vision coverage
401(k) with company match or executive retirement plan
Life and disability insurance
Company-paid travel and accommodation for work-related commitments
Paid memberships to industry associations or conferences
Wellness stipends and executive coaching programs
Flexible time off and remote work allowances (as applicable)

6. Signing Bonus & Relocation Support

For out-of-state or highly qualified candidates, a signing bonus and relocation package may be offered. Signing bonuses can range from $25,000 to $150,000, depending on the level of experience and negotiation, while relocation support includes moving costs, housing assistance, and temporary accommodation.

Total Compensation Potential

When combining all elements—base salary, bonuses, equity, LTIPs, and benefits—the total annual compensation for the VP of Aerospace Robotics can range from $300,000 to $700,000+, with exceptional candidates in growth-stage or top-tier organizations exceeding that range.

How to Apply

If you are an accomplished leader with deep expertise in aerospace systems, robotics innovation, and strategic program management, we invite you to apply for the Vice President (VP) of Aerospace Robotics role based in Boston, MA. This is a high-impact executive opportunity to lead pioneering technological advancements and shape the future of intelligent aerospace solutions.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your leadership experience in aerospace engineering, robotics R&D, technical program delivery, and organizational growth. Emphasize your achievements in scaling robotics platforms, managing cross-functional teams, securing government or commercial aerospace contracts, and driving innovation in high-performance environments.

This role presents a rare chance to lead a cutting-edge division within a forward-thinking aerospace technology company. If you are ready to take the next step in your executive career and make a lasting impact in aerospace robotics, we encourage you to apply today.

For additional details or to explore similar opportunities, please visit our Aerospace & Robotics Executive Careers Page.

Job Category: Aerospace

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Boston

VP of Aerospace Robotics – Boston, MA