About Us:

Collaborative autonomy is how self-tasking teams of machines will solve hard human problems, and HavocAI is an unquestioned leader in collaborative autonomy. We set the standard for autonomous surface vessels for a wide range of defense and commercial maritime missions. Success requires us to grow quickly, and we’re looking for teammates who are passionate about solving hard problems, about pushing the envelope, and about preventing conflict and saving lives. Ambition is welcome to apply within.

About the Role:

As our Navy Programs Lead, you will drive the strategy, capture, execution, and growth of HavocAI’s portfolio of Navy and maritime defense programs. This is a high-impact, customer-facing leadership role responsible for delivering complex, multi-disciplinary programs involving autonomy, hardware, and mission operations — while ensuring cost, schedule, and technical excellence.

You’ll lead cross-functional teams across Engineering, Test, Operations, and Production to ensure successful outcomes and shape the long-term roadmap for our Navy partnerships.

Key Responsibilities and Requirements:

• Lead Full Cycle Program Execution: Oversee all phases of program delivery, including planning, proposal management, capture, contract kickoff, deployment, and sustainment — ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and budget.

• Customer Engagement: Serve as the primary interface with Navy customers and partners; lead program reviews and report on progress, performance, and risk mitigation.

• Strategic Leadership: Develop long-term program and capture strategy and shape the roadmap for future maritime autonomy initiatives aligned with customer and mission needs.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Partner with Strategy, Engineering, Operations, and Test to translate technical milestones into executable plans, balancing speed with rigor.

• Risk & Performance Management: Identify risks early, implement mitigations, and drive accountability through Earned Value Management (EVM) and other performance metrics.

• Business Growth: Support proposal development, contracting, and pursuit strategies for new opportunities in the naval autonomy domain.

• Operational Excellence: Build and mentor a culture of disciplined execution, technical excellence, and mission-driven focus across all program teams.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Business, or a related technical field.

• 10+ years of experience in program or project management within defense, aerospace, or maritime domains.

• Demonstrated experience leading complex development or production programs with government customers.

• Working knowledge of Earned Value Management (EVM) principles and program financial reporting.

• Proven success managing multi-disciplinary teams delivering software, hardware, and mission systems.

• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage confidently across all levels of government and industry.

• U.S. Citizenship and eligibility to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active DoD Secret or higher clearance.

• Prior military service with real-world subject matter expertise in autonomy and maritime operations.

• Prior experience managing Navy or maritime systems programs (ASVs, sensors, command and control, or similar).

• Advanced degree (MBA, Engineering, or Systems Management).

• PMP or DAWIA Program Management Certification.

• Experience with defense acquisition, proposal development, or new program startup.

Benefits:

• 100% Employer paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your families

• Life Insurance

• Ability to participate in the companies 401k program

• Unlimited PTO policy with an enforced 2 week minimum

• Equity Package

• Work / Home Office Stipend

• Global Entry

• 16 Week Paid Parental Leave

• Monthly Health and Wellness Stipend

Our Values:

• Innovation: We are driven to break new ground. Every day presents an opportunity to challenge the status quo, think boldly, and deliver advanced solutions that transform the future of defense technology.

• Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency, accountability, and trust in all our actions and partnerships.

• Mission-Driven: We are focused on achieving impactful outcomes that align with our core mission—protecting lives through innovation.

• Forward-Leaning: We continuously seek out new opportunities and remain at the forefront of technological advancements. We embrace change and anticipate the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and creativity.

• Ownership of All Tasks: At HavocAI, no problem is too complex or too trivial. We believe that greatness comes from tackling the hardest challenges, but also in handling the smallest, sometimes thankless, tasks with the same level of commitment and care.

• Servant Leadership: We lead by serving others, whether it’s supporting our employees, partners, or the broader community. Empowering those around us is key to achieving long-term success and making a lasting impact.

HavocAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.