Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Wichita, KS

Are you an experienced leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and robotics, with a passion for innovation and cutting-edge technology? We are seeking a Director of UAS & Robotics to drive the strategic direction, development, and growth of our UAS and robotics initiatives in Wichita, KS. This role offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of advancements in the aerospace and robotics industries, where your expertise will shape the future of these transformative technologies.

Pioneer Innovation in UAS and Robotics

A leading company in the UAS and robotics sector, located in Wichita, KS, is looking for a Director to guide its next phase of innovation and expansion. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background, a history of successful leadership in UAS or robotics, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams. If you are ready to lead an organization at the forefront of technological evolution and drive impactful solutions, this role offers the chance to leave a lasting legacy in the world of unmanned systems and robotics.

Key Responsibilities of the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Wichita, KS

Strategic Leadership & Vision:
Define and execute a comprehensive strategic vision for the company’s UAS and robotics division. Align technology development and market expansion with industry trends, customer needs, and operational capabilities. Lead the team to innovate and create cutting-edge solutions that position the company as a leader in unmanned systems and robotics.

Research & Development Oversight:
Drive R&D initiatives in UAS and robotics to ensure the continuous development of advanced technologies. Work closely with engineers and technical teams to oversee the design, prototyping, and testing phases of new systems, ensuring they meet industry standards and customer requirements.

Operational Management:
Oversee the operations of the UAS and robotics division, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and quality. Implement best practices in manufacturing, development, and testing while maintaining cost-effective operations. Streamline workflows and improve cross-departmental collaboration to enhance team performance.

Market Expansion & Business Growth:
Identify emerging market trends and opportunities to expand the company’s presence in the UAS and robotics sectors. Lead efforts to enhance product development, enter new markets, and build strategic partnerships with key players in the aerospace, defense, and robotics industries.

Team Leadership & Talent Development:
Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence within the UAS and robotics team. Attract and retain top talent by creating an environment conducive to growth and professional development. Provide leadership and mentorship to ensure alignment with company goals and values.

Financial & Budget Management:
Work closely with the executive team and finance department to manage budgets, allocate resources, and oversee the financial health of the UAS and robotics division. Monitor key performance metrics, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure investments align with the company’s long-term goals.

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management:
Ensure all products and operations comply with relevant safety, legal, and regulatory standards, including FAA guidelines and international laws for unmanned aircraft. Develop risk management strategies to mitigate operational, financial, and reputational risks.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Relations:
Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including investors, partners, and government agencies. Provide regular updates on progress, performance, and strategic initiatives, and secure necessary support for continued development and growth.

Customer & Market Insights:
Utilize market research and customer feedback to refine product offerings and improve the customer experience. Lead the efforts to innovate solutions based on customer needs, and ensure that products meet performance and reliability standards in the UAS and robotics markets.

Technology & Systems Integration:
Oversee the integration of UAS and robotics technologies into existing systems and platforms. Ensure that new developments are seamlessly incorporated into operations and meet the technical requirements of customers and stakeholders.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics, the client is looking for a visionary leader with a proven ability to drive technological innovation, lead high-performing teams, and successfully navigate the complex and dynamic UAS and robotics industries. You should be a strategic thinker with a deep technical background, able to manage both the operational and development sides of cutting-edge unmanned systems and robotics solutions.

Proven Leadership in UAS & Robotics

The ideal candidate should have a strong history of leadership in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and robotics, with a focus on innovation and technological excellence. You should have experience leading multidisciplinary teams in developing and launching complex systems, as well as driving growth and expanding market share in these highly competitive and evolving sectors. A background in aerospace, robotics, or similar industries will be highly valued.

Strategic Vision for UAS & Robotics Growth

As Director, you must be able to craft and execute long-term strategies that position the company as a leader in the UAS and robotics markets. The ideal candidate will have experience identifying new market opportunities, driving technological advancements, and optimizing business operations for growth. The client values leaders who can anticipate technological trends, leverage data insights, and swiftly adapt to market needs to sustain and accelerate growth.

Strong Technical and Operational Expertise

The client seeks a leader who possesses both strong technical expertise in UAS and robotics as well as operational experience in managing product development and manufacturing. You should be comfortable overseeing the end-to-end lifecycle of advanced technologies, from concept to deployment. Your ability to integrate new technologies into existing systems and lead R&D teams will be crucial to the company’s continued success in the sector.

Ability to Build and Lead High-Performing Teams

Leadership in this role requires the ability to attract, inspire, and retain top talent in the UAS and robotics fields. The client is looking for a leader who can foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and high performance. You should be able to build cross-functional teams, encourage professional development, and create a high-engagement environment that drives both individual and collective success.

Strong Stakeholder and Industry Relations

A key aspect of this role is managing relationships with stakeholders, investors, and strategic partners. The ideal candidate will have experience in presenting technical and business strategies to diverse audiences, securing funding, and driving collaborations with key industry players. The client values leaders who can maintain transparency, build trust, and align various stakeholders towards common business goals.

Commitment to Innovation and Regulatory Compliance

The client values a leader who stays ahead of technological and regulatory trends in the UAS and robotics industries. You should have a keen understanding of industry regulations, safety standards, and risk management strategies. A commitment to operational excellence, compliance with regulations, and ensuring the ethical development and deployment of technology will be key to this role’s success.

Business Acumen and Financial Savvy

The Director should possess strong financial acumen to manage budgets, analyze performance metrics, and drive financial decisions that align with the company’s goals. The client is looking for a leader who can effectively allocate resources, optimize costs, and make strategic, data-driven decisions to ensure the company’s long-term profitability and growth.

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

What are the key responsibilities of the Director in this role?
As the Director of UAS & Robotics, you will be responsible for setting the strategic vision for the company’s UAS and robotics division, driving innovation, and overseeing the development of advanced systems. You will manage day-to-day operations, ensure efficient project execution, and lead R&D initiatives. Additionally, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams, expand market opportunities, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate will have extensive leadership experience in the UAS, robotics, or aerospace industries, with a strong technical background in unmanned systems and robotics technologies. You should have a proven track record of successfully managing large teams, overseeing product development, and driving business growth. Experience with regulatory compliance, technology integration, and market expansion is crucial. A relevant advanced degree or certification is highly preferred.
What leadership qualities are essential for this role?
The company seeks a forward-thinking leader with strong strategic vision, technical expertise, and the ability to inspire and guide teams through complex projects. Excellent decision-making, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential. You should be able to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and high performance, while also managing stakeholder relationships effectively.
What challenges can I expect in this role?
As Director of UAS & Robotics, you will face challenges such as staying ahead of rapidly evolving technologies, managing complex product development cycles, and addressing market demands for innovative and reliable solutions. You will also need to navigate regulatory hurdles and ensure the company’s systems meet industry standards. Balancing growth opportunities with operational efficiency and maintaining a competitive edge will be key challenges.
What is the expected impact of the Director on the company’s growth?
The Director of UAS & Robotics will have a direct impact on the company’s innovation, market share, and overall growth. Your leadership will influence the company’s ability to stay at the forefront of UAS and robotics technology, expand into new markets, and build strategic partnerships. By driving product development and fostering a high-performance team, you will help position the company as a leader in the unmanned systems and robotics industries.
What is the company’s culture and work environment like?
The company fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence. It is a dynamic, fast-paced environment where you will be encouraged to think creatively, take initiative, and work closely with a team of skilled professionals. The company values continuous improvement and offers opportunities for career growth and development. As a leader, you will play a key role in shaping the culture and driving the company’s mission forward.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics in Wichita, KS, you can expect a competitive compensation package that reflects the significance of this leadership role within a rapidly evolving and highly specialized industry. The remuneration for this position is structured to attract top-tier professionals with a blend of technical expertise and strategic vision. Here’s what you can anticipate:

Base Salary

The base salary for the Director of UAS & Robotics varies depending on the company’s size, industry standing, and the complexity of the role. For this position, the annual base salary typically ranges from $150,000 to $250,000, with the potential for higher compensation for candidates with extensive experience in unmanned systems or robotics, or those coming from larger organizations.

Performance-Based Bonuses

In addition to the base salary, you can expect performance-based bonuses tied to key objectives such as technological milestones, business growth, market expansion, and operational efficiency. These bonuses can range from 20% to 40% of the base salary, based on both individual and company performance.

Equity & Stock Options

To align your interests with the long-term success of the company, the role may include equity-based compensation such as stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or performance shares. These incentives are designed to reward long-term company growth and enhance shareholder value. The value of equity grants will depend on the company’s valuation and growth trajectory, offering significant potential for future financial rewards.

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

Some companies provide profit-sharing or Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs), which allow you to share in the success of the company over multiple years. These plans incentivize sustainable growth and reward continued success, offering additional financial benefits based on company performance and strategic achievements.

Executive Benefits & Perks

As a senior leader in the organization, you can expect a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

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 development, travel, and networking
Professional development programs

Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance

For top candidates, the company may offer signing bonuses or relocation assistance to ease the transition into this pivotal role. Signing bonuses may range from $20,000 to $100,000, depending on the company’s needs and the candidate’s qualifications. Relocation packages are typically offered to ensure a smooth move to Wichita, KS, and can cover moving expenses and temporary housing.

Total Compensation Potential

When factoring in the base salary, performance bonuses, equity incentives, long-term incentives, and executive benefits, total compensation for the Director of UAS & Robotics can range from $250,000 to $450,000 annually. For high-performing candidates or those with exceptional expertise, total compensation may exceed this range, particularly in a high-growth or rapidly expanding company.

How to Apply

If you are a visionary leader with extensive experience in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Robotics, we invite you to apply for the Director of UAS & Robotics role in Wichita, KS. This is an exceptional opportunity to drive technological innovation, lead cutting-edge projects, and shape the future of unmanned systems in a fast-growing industry.

To apply, please submit your resume along with a cover letter that outlines your experience in UAS & robotics leadership, technological innovation, market expansion, and team management. Highlight your ability to lead research and development efforts, manage complex operations, and foster strategic partnerships in the unmanned systems and robotics sectors.

This role offers an exciting chance to influence the future of technology, spearhead advanced research initiatives, and lead a dynamic team in an industry that is on the cutting edge of aerospace and robotics. Apply today to take the next step in your career as the Director of UAS & Robotics in Wichita, KS!

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

Job Category: Aerospace

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Wichita

Director of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Robotics – Wichita, KS