Head of Autonomy

This position is posted by Jobgether on behalf of a partner company. We are currently looking for a Head of Autonomy in Canada.

This role offers the opportunity to lead the design, development, and deployment of cutting-edge autonomous systems for spacecraft operating in highly dynamic and contested environments. You will define the autonomy roadmap end-to-end, building algorithms and AI-driven frameworks that enable real-time decision-making, multi-agent coordination, and adaptive operations. Leading a small, elite team, you will translate strategic objectives into actionable technical solutions while collaborating cross-functionally with software, hardware, and mission operations teams. This position combines strategic vision, technical leadership, and operational rigor to create autonomous capabilities that set new industry standards in space operations.

• Own and execute the technical vision and autonomy roadmap, translating strategic goals into actionable algorithmic milestones
• Develop autonomous decision-making systems for spacecraft operating under uncertainty, communication delays, and adversarial conditions
• Design game-theoretic frameworks and multi-agent strategies for space operations, anticipating adversary behavior and optimizing response
• Integrate AI/ML capabilities for collaboration, anomaly detection, pattern recognition, and adaptive behavior in flight-critical systems
• Lead recruitment, mentorship, and development of a world-class autonomy team with expertise in control theory, game theory, and AI
• Collaborate across flight software, GNC, hardware, and mission operations teams to ensure seamless system integration
• Drive maturation of research into flight-ready autonomous capabilities while balancing certification and safety requirements
• Represent the technical vision externally through publications, conferences, and community engagement

Requirements:

• PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Control Theory, Applied Mathematics, or related field (exceptional MS + extensive experience considered)
• 8+ years of experience developing autonomous systems, with at least 3 years in technical leadership roles
• Deep expertise in at least one of: game theory (multi-agent systems, adversarial reasoning), optimal control (MPC, trajectory optimization), or modern AI/ML (reinforcement learning, imitation learning, transformers)
• Proven track record of shipping autonomous systems for real-world applications
• Demonstrated experience recruiting, mentoring, and leading high-performing technical teams
• Strong analytical, algorithmic, and problem-solving skills, with hands-on experience in C++ and Python
• Familiarity with probabilistic reasoning, state estimation, and planning under uncertainty
• Ability to obtain or maintain required security clearances (strongly preferred)
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate cross-functionally and articulate complex autonomy concepts externally

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary: CAD $175,000–$360,000 (depending on experience and location)
• Equity and long-term incentive opportunities
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, HRA/HSA options
• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Retirement plans including 401(k) or equivalent
• Parental leave and family support benefits
• Opportunities for professional growth, research engagement, and industry recognition
• Flexible remote work options with occasional travel for collaboration and mission-critical integration