Director Ground Robotics Engineering

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on uncrewed systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Micro Systems Inc. (MSI), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, uncrewed arial systems and self-driving trucks. As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing systems to support National Security.

At MSI, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of autonomous technology within the defense and commercial industry today!

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

The Director of Ground Robotics Engineering for Autonomous Vehicle Technologies leads cross-functional teams to develop leading-edge solutions for remote and Leader-Follower automated driving control. This position encompasses managing all phases of engineering development, from concept through completion, while ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Lead the UGV technical team in researching, designing, developing, and testing electronic control systems, including mechanical design and hardware installation.
• Collaborate with Hardware, Software, and Mechanical design teams.
• Oversee the detailed design and implementation of test control apparatuses and equipment.
• Provide regular status updates to internal leadership.
• Address and resolve customer-facing technical or program-related issues as needed.
• Review programs to ensure electrical and mechanical subsystem integrity for functionality and manufacturability.
• Ensure all projects are completed on schedule and within budget constraints.
• Offer technical support across various company departments.
• Travel as required to support new and existing customers.
• This is an onsite position.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

• Mentor and train new engineers and leaders.
• Support the technical bid and proposal processes.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

• Lead technical project teams and support staff, including:
  
  
  
  • Engineers
  • Installers
  • Technicians
  • Test drivers
  • Co-ops and Interns
  
  
  
  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Technical expertise a plus:
  
  
  
  • MATLAB
  • Linux and Robot Operating System (ROS)
  • State estimation and navigation algorithms, including Kalman Filters
  • Ground vehicle dynamics
  • GPS, Lidars, radars, and datalinks
  
  
  
  
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills for collaboration with peers, supervisors, and customers.
• Ability to lead a technical design team in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in developing clear drawings, instructions, and procedures.
• Advanced presentation and customer interaction skills.

PREFERED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bacheloris degree in a technical field (Engineering, Math, or Physics).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in technical leadership.
• Proficiency with MS Office.
• Hands-on experience in UGV development.
• Background in development and testing of microprocessor/computer-based control systems and related software.
• Experience in the development, testing, and maintenance of electronic and mechanical systems.
• Program management or project engineering experience.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Office, production, and field environments.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions (e.g., keyboarding, using a 10-key, handling phones).
• Capacity to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to travel both domestically and internationally.
• Capability to work on large, unmanned ground vehicles.

THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALSiASSIGNED TO THIS CLASSIFICATION. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED.

A REVIEW OF THIS CLASSIFICATION HAS EXCLUDED THE MARGINAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASSIFICATION THAT AREiINCIDENTAL TO THE PERFORMANCE OF FUNDAMENTAL JOB JUTIES. ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THIS JOB PROFICIENTLY.i THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES

EEO/M/F/D/V

#LI-Onsite