Head of Autonomy

YOUR MISSION

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the research, design, implementation, and optimization of AI/Autonomy  spacecraft algorithms for autonomous decision-making and control. 
• Be a thought leader in the AI/Autonomy space, stay current on SOTA techniques and applications. 
• Develop and maintain the technical roadmap for autonomy and algorithmic capabilities in alignment with spacecraft program and mission objectives. 
• Oversee rigorous algorithm verification and validation processes, including Monte-Carlo analysis, SIL/HIL testing, and scenario-based performance evaluation. 
• Collaborate closely with GNC, avionics, flight software, simulation, and mission operations teams to ensure seamless integration of algorithms into spacecraft systems. 
• Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of algorithm engineers specializing in autonomous decision making under uncertainty  
• Own the development and maintenance of modeling, simulation, and data infrastructure required for prototyping, training, and evaluating algorithmic solutions. 
• Establish and enforce best practices for code quality, documentation, peer review, and reproducible research in safety-critical algorithm development. 
• Assess emerging algorithmic and AI/ML techniques and guide the maturation of promising technologies into flight-ready capabilities. 
• Translate mission and program requirements into clear algorithmic specifications and support technical reviews, audits, and flight certification milestones. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics AI/ML or a related field (Masters or PhD preferred). 
• 8–12+ years of experience in AI/ML, including hands-on work with embedded systems. 
• Demonstrated experience leading technical teams and delivering complex algorithmic solutions for safety-critical or real-time embedded systems. 
• Deep knowledge in one of the following concepts: reinforcement learning, state machines, imitation learning, anomaly detection, optimal control or transformer architectures. 
• Strong proficiency in numerical methods, planning, optimization, probabilistic reasoning, and modern estimation techniques (e.g., EKF/UKF, nonlinear filtering). 
• Familiar with game theory techniques and how they are applied in the real world. 
• Hands-on expertise with simulation tools, modeling environments, and algorithm development in languages such as C++ and Python 
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally with hardware, software, and mission teams to integrate algorithms into operational systems. 
• Ability to obtain a security clearance (active clearance preferred).

COMPENSATION

• Colorado Base Salary: $175,000-$270,000
• California Base Salary: $180,000-$285,000
• Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave 

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience. 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work Location—this will be a fully onsite opportunity based out of either our Centennial, CO or Long Beach, CA offices.
• Work environment—the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
• Physical demands—the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite