Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Seattle, WA

We are looking for an innovative and experienced leader to take on the role of Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics at a cutting-edge technology firm in Seattle, WA. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of the UAS and robotics industries, leading teams in the development and deployment of breakthrough technologies. If you are passionate about advancing robotics, aviation, and autonomous systems, and have a proven track record of leadership in this space, we want to hear from you.

Drive Technological Advancement and Operational Excellence

As the Director of UAS & Robotics, you will oversee the strategy and execution of key projects, driving technological advancements and operational efficiency. This role requires a strong background in UAS, robotics, and engineering, combined with exceptional leadership skills. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure the integration of innovative technologies and the seamless delivery of complex projects. If you’re ready to lead a team in a dynamic environment and play a pivotal role in the future of unmanned systems and robotics, this opportunity is for you.

Key Responsibilities of the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Seattle, WA

Strategic Leadership & Vision:
Develop and execute a clear, forward-thinking strategy for UAS and robotics development, aligning with industry advancements and market demands. Establish long-term goals, drive innovation, and ensure the company remains at the forefront of unmanned systems and robotics technologies.

Technical Excellence & Innovation:
Lead the research, design, and development of UAS and robotic technologies. Oversee the integration of cutting-edge technologies and ensure that the company’s offerings remain competitive and on the leading edge of innovation. Foster an environment of continuous improvement in engineering and product development processes.

Operational Management:
Manage and streamline operational processes, ensuring efficient project execution, resource management, and alignment across all teams. Establish best practices, optimize performance, and drive efficiency in the delivery of UAS and robotics solutions.

Team Leadership & Collaboration:
Build and lead high-performing teams, ensuring cross-functional collaboration across engineering, operations, product development, and other departments. Promote a culture of innovation, accountability, and excellence while developing the next generation of engineers and technical leaders.

Revenue Generation & Market Expansion:
Identify and drive new business opportunities within the UAS and robotics sectors. Expand the company’s market share by developing strategic partnerships, entering new markets, and leveraging new revenue streams to ensure sustained growth.

Financial Oversight & Budgeting:
Oversee the budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation for UAS and robotics projects. Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet financial goals while maintaining a strong ROI for stakeholders.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication:
Maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including investors, partners, and customers. Provide regular updates on project milestones, technological advancements, and financial performance, ensuring transparency and strategic alignment.

Compliance & Safety Standards:
Ensure adherence to all regulatory and safety standards within the UAS and robotics industries. Proactively manage risks, ensure full compliance with relevant laws and regulations, and maintain a focus on safety in both product development and operational processes.

Customer Insights & Market Research:
Leverage market research, customer feedback, and data-driven insights to guide product development and meet the evolving needs of the market. Ensure that the company’s UAS and robotics products align with customer expectations and remain competitive in the marketplace.

Supply Chain & Manufacturing Oversight:
Oversee the sourcing, production, and delivery of UAS and robotics systems. Ensure supply chain efficiency, manage vendor relationships, and optimize inventory management to meet demand and maintain high product quality standards.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics, the client is seeking an exceptional leader with extensive experience in unmanned systems, robotics, and engineering. You should be a forward-thinking, results-oriented executive who thrives in a dynamic environment and is capable of driving technological advancements while ensuring operational efficiency.

Proven Leadership in UAS & Robotics

The client is looking for a highly experienced leader with a strong track record in the UAS, robotics, or aerospace industries. You should have a history of leading teams in the successful development, testing, and deployment of advanced technologies. A deep understanding of UAS systems, autonomous robotics, and their applications across various industries is critical.

Strategic Vision and Technological Expertise

As Director, you must possess a strategic mindset, capable of defining and executing long-term plans that align with the company’s goals in unmanned systems and robotics. The ideal candidate will have experience in identifying new market opportunities, advancing technological innovation, and driving product development. You should have a keen eye for market trends and be able to pivot quickly to adapt to emerging technologies and industry needs.

Strong Technical and Engineering Background

The client values candidates with a robust technical foundation in engineering, robotics, and autonomous systems. You should be well-versed in system integration, software development, and hardware design related to UAS and robotics. A deep technical understanding, coupled with the ability to manage complex engineering projects, will be vital to the success of this role.

Ability to Build and Lead High-Performing Teams

Leadership is a key component of this position. The client is looking for a Director who can attract, develop, and lead top-tier talent. You should have experience in building and managing cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and accountability while encouraging innovation and continuous improvement. The ability to inspire and engage your team is essential to drive results.

Strong Financial Acumen and Project Management

The client seeks a leader with a strong understanding of budgeting, resource allocation, and cost management within UAS and robotics projects. You should have a proven ability to manage project finances, ensure timely delivery, and achieve key performance indicators.

Customer-Centric Approach and Market Insights

A customer-first mindset is crucial in this role. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of market needs, customer behavior, and the ability to translate these insights into actionable strategies for UAS and robotics solutions. Experience in understanding and responding to customer demands in the high-tech sector is highly desirable.

Effective Stakeholder and Investor Engagement

As the Director of UAS & Robotics, you will need to engage with various stakeholders, including investors, business partners, and customers. The ability to communicate effectively with senior leadership, present data-driven insights, and maintain strong relationships will be essential to the company’s success in securing investments and strategic partnerships.

Commitment to Operational Excellence and Compliance

The client values operational excellence and a strong commitment to safety and compliance. You should have a firm understanding of industry regulations, safety standards, and quality control measures. Ensuring that all UAS and robotics systems meet regulatory requirements and industry best practices will be a critical aspect of your role.

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 setting the strategic direction for unmanned aircraft systems and robotics technologies, leading product development, and overseeing the integration of advanced technologies. You will manage cross-functional teams, drive innovation, ensure compliance with industry standards, and work closely with stakeholders to secure business growth and expand market share. Additionally, you will oversee operational efficiency, budget management, and project execution, ensuring the successful deployment of UAS and robotics solutions.

What qualifications and experience are required for this position?

The ideal candidate should have extensive leadership experience in UAS, robotics, or aerospace industries, with a strong technical background in engineering, systems integration, or robotics. Experience in leading high-tech projects, managing product development, and overseeing complex engineering teams is essential. The client is looking for someone with a proven track record in the development and deployment of unmanned systems and autonomous technologies. A degree in engineering, robotics, or a related field is required; a Master’s degree or relevant advanced qualifications are highly preferred.

What leadership qualities are essential for this role?

The client seeks a visionary leader with exceptional technical expertise and the ability to drive innovation in unmanned systems and robotics. You should possess strong problem-solving skills, excellent communication abilities, and the capacity to lead multidisciplinary teams effectively. A focus on operational excellence, collaboration, and maintaining high standards of safety and compliance is crucial. You should also have a customer-centric mindset, enabling you to understand market needs and adapt solutions accordingly.

What challenges can I expect in this role?

As Director of UAS & Robotics, you will encounter challenges such as staying ahead of rapid technological advancements, managing complex, large-scale projects, and ensuring the integration of innovative technologies into functional systems. You will need to address issues related to regulatory compliance, safety standards, and product quality while meeting customer expectations in a highly competitive market. Additionally, balancing resource management, budget constraints, and team performance will be critical to your success.

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 crucial role in advancing the company’s technological leadership and market presence in the unmanned systems and robotics sectors. By driving innovation, optimizing operational processes, and leading the development of cutting-edge products, you will directly impact the company’s growth, customer satisfaction, and competitive advantage. Your leadership will ensure that the company remains at the forefront of the industry and is positioned for continued success.

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

The company fosters an environment of collaboration, innovation, and excellence. It is a fast-paced and dynamic workplace that encourages the development of new ideas and technological solutions. The company values leaders who are passionate about driving change, enhancing operational efficiency, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety. You will have the opportunity to shape and influence the company’s culture while working alongside top-tier professionals in the UAS and robotics fields.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics in Seattle, WA, you can expect a highly competitive compensation package that reflects your expertise and the strategic importance of this role. The remuneration typically includes:

Base Salary

The base salary for this role will vary depending on the company’s size, technology offerings, and market position. For a mid-to-large-sized company in the UAS and robotics sector, the annual base salary for the Director role can range from $150,000 to $250,000. Larger or more established companies may offer higher salaries to attract top-tier talent with significant experience.

Performance-Based Bonuses

In addition to the base salary, most compensation packages for this role include annual performance-based bonuses. These bonuses are typically tied to key business objectives such as product development milestones, market expansion, successful integration of technologies, and operational efficiency. Bonuses can range from 20% to 50% of the base salary, based on both individual and company performance.

Equity & Stock Options

Many companies in the high-tech UAS and robotics industries offer equity-based incentives, such as stock options or performance shares. These incentives help align your compensation with the company’s long-term growth and success, offering significant financial rewards if the company performs well. Equity grants can make up a substantial portion of the overall compensation package, depending on the company’s valuation and growth potential.

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

Some companies provide profit-sharing or LTIPs as part of their compensation packages. These long-term incentives reward leadership for maintaining a focus on sustainable business growth, innovation, and long-term success. These plans may include a percentage of company profits or additional financial incentives based on long-term milestones and company performance.

Executive Benefits & Perks

Directors in high-tech industries often receive comprehensive executive benefits, which may include:

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

Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance

For highly sought-after candidates, signing bonuses or relocation assistance packages may be offered. These one-time incentives are designed to attract top talent and can range from $20,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the candidate’s experience and the company’s needs.

Total Compensation Potential

When factoring in base salary, bonuses, stock options, profit-sharing, and additional benefits, total compensation for the Director of UAS & Robotics can range from $200,000 to $400,000 annually in many leading firms. High-growth companies, particularly in the tech or aerospace sectors, may offer even more lucrative compensation packages.

How to Apply

If you are a visionary leader with a passion for unmanned systems and robotics, we invite you to apply for the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics role in Seattle, WA. This is a unique opportunity to lead the development and integration of cutting-edge UAS and robotics technologies, drive innovation, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the company’s technological advancements.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience in UAS, robotics, and aerospace industries, leadership in product development, and technical expertise. Highlight your track record of managing high-tech projects, driving operational efficiency, and leading cross-functional teams to success. Additionally, demonstrate your strategic thinking and vision for advancing unmanned systems and robotics solutions.

This role offers a high-impact career opportunity where you will make a significant impact on the company’s growth, technological leadership, and market position. Apply today to take the next step in your career as the Director of UAS & Robotics in Seattle, WA!

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

Job Category: Aerospace

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Seattle

Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Seattle, WA