Staff Careers

The Deputy Director of the Aviation Systems and Counter Defensive Systems is a leadership role responsible for overseeing and advancing the university's Systems programs, technologies, and research efforts supporting the growing MDA, FAA, NASA, Redstone Arsenal, AvMC, Armed Services and Special Forces customer needs. This position will focus on driving innovation in systems development Aviation Systems and Counter Defensive Systems with significant responsibility for technical development, programmatic oversight, strategic direction, and team development. The Deputy Director will collaborate with external partners, industry leaders, and academic institutions while ensuring the successful execution of related projects and research initiatives.

Duties/Responsibilities
• Lead and manage (technical, schedule, expenditures, business, training) the Aviation Systems and Counter Defensive Systems programs at the Rotorcraft Systems Engineering and Simulation Center, with a strong focus on technologies, autonomy, and testing the Aviation Systems and Counter Defensive Systems technologies.
• Set and execute strategic vision for the Aviation Systems and Counter Defensive Systems research, development, and innovation, ensuring alignment with both academic objectives and external defense and commercial needs.
• Work closely with the Center Director and Deputy Director of Uncrewed Systems to develop and refine strategic partnerships with external organizations, agencies, and industry leaders.
• Manage and guide the technical and operational work of the team, setting clear objectives and providing mentorship to team members
• Lead the team in Rotorcraft integration of technology advancements and defensive technologies programs with a strong focus on assisting Redstone Arsenal.
• Develop and oversee technology roadmaps for UNCREWED and autonomy programs, ensuring consistent and scalable growth
• Direct the execution of the Aviation Systems and Counter Defensive Systems research including threat development, testing, and demonstration projects, ensuring the successful delivery of innovative solutions and technology advancements.-
• Contribute to and guide technical innovation in the Aviation Systems and Counter Defensive Systems technologies and solutions, remaining hands-on when necessary for key developments.
• Act as a subject matter expert, providing technical leadership and guidance to internal teams and external stakeholders
• Regularly engage with external partners, stakeholders, and agencies to build and maintain strategic partnerships and grow business

• P.D. preferably in science, engineering, or business; (experience in a specialized area may be substituted for a degree), 11 - 11.5 years of development related to Uncrewed, Vertical Lift and Counter Uncrewed systems, or an equivalent combination of education and years of experience.
• Security Clearance required
• Must be a US Citizen
• Must have program and project management experience
• Must have strong business development experience

• Aerospace and Defense relate Master of Business Administration preferred
• Working with or has strong relationship with Redstone Arsenal PEO Aviation, PM UAS desired
• Responsible for fielding multiple UAS systems in support of the DOD preferred
• Worked with or has strong relationship with DEVCOM Aviation & Missile Center (AvMC) desired
• Worked with or has strong relationship with RTTCO and PEO M&S preferred
• Technical Expert in Uncrewed Aircraft System Airworthiness and Safety desired
• Acquisition Corps Member, Defense Acquisition University Engineering Level 3 Certified preferred
• Private and Part 107 Pilots Licensee desired

$221,975 - $235,313