Director of Software Engineering, Integration & Simulation

Overview

The Director of Engineering, Software Engineering is an experienced leader within the Autonomous Systems (AxS) Segment, responsible for participating in the overall strategic technology roadmap to drive business growth in a fast-paced market. This role oversees a team of Simulation and Software Integration Engineers that develop world-class products and solutions within a defined rapid R&D development process, with emphasis on safety, reliability, innovation, and cost efficiency. The director builds a functional organization to meet business needs.

Location: On-site at AeroVironment Engineering Centers: Simi Valley, CA; Petaluma, CA; San Diego, CA; Huntsville, AL; Sunrise, FL; Pottstown, PA; Melbourne, FL.

Position Responsibilities

• Build and manage an engineering organization skilled in rapid prototyping and transitioning projects to full production.
• Define and drive adoption of simulation-based product development as a core engineering capability. Guide the use of instrumented flight test vectors and data acquisition to support simulation and validation. Oversee rapid system performance evaluation through advanced modeling, advocate for best practice application, and foster simulation expertise across the team.
• Continuously improve software simulation and integration capabilities to support the Autonomous Vehicle Segment (AxS).
• Manage engineering resources and budgets aligned with strategic plans and the Annual Operating Plan (AOP).
• Cultivate a professional environment for engineers to excel and grow.
• Participate in setting business strategy and act as a key liaison across teams and with leadership.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

• BS degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• 12+ years of experience in embedded programming and knowledge in embedded system design
• At least 2+ years in a supervisory role and experience managing a technical design team
• 8+ years of experience on multiple engineering projects including research and development with focus on embedded software
• Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS), I/O drivers, and micro-controllers
• Experience with data communication protocols (I2C, SPI, CAN, USB)
• Demonstrated programming ability in C
• Occasional travel within the Continental U.S.

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

• Advanced degree is desired
• Ability to communicate technically with electrical, mechanical and software groups
• Skill in identifying, communicating and mitigating technical risks
• Understanding of schematics; able to use a logic analyzer
• Strong interpersonal, written and oral communication skills
• Independent judgment in methods and evaluation criteria
• Strategic thinking, adaptability and vision to guide teams through change
• Ability to build trusting internal and external relationships
• Risk assessment and mitigation capabilities

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in an office and production environment (Constant)
• Must be able to sit and stand for long periods; use a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)

Clearance

No Clearance

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range for this role is $163,000 - $239,925. AeroVironment offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule, and a paid holiday shutdown. For details, review the company benefit offerings at the company website.

ITAR/EEO Information

ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information subject to ITAR and/or EAR compliance. Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR/EAR, or obtain export license approval as required. U.S. person includes U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or protected individual. Some positions may require current U.S. citizenship due to contract requirements.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome all qualified applicants and provide fair consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other legally protected status.

About AV

AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.