Technical Project Manager

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:

We are seeking a highly skilled Technical Project Manager to drive the successful planning, execution, and delivery of complex, multidisciplinary projects that integrate advanced hardware and software solutions for multi-domain autonomous systems. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical expertise, exceptional organizational skills, and a proven track record in managing projects that require seamless coordination across engineering, manufacturing, and software development teams.

Key Responsibilities and Requirements:
Project Planning & Execution

• Develop and manage detailed project plans, schedules, milestones, and dependencies.
• Lead execution across multiple concurrent programs, ensuring alignment with technical and program objectives.
• Track progress against scope, schedule, and risk, driving accountability across teams.

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Serve as the primary liaison across engineering, product, manufacturing, and external partners.
• Facilitate regular project reviews, standups, and executive updates.
• Ensure tight integration between hardware, software, and manufacturing workflows.

Risk Management & Problem Solving

• Identify technical, operational, and schedule risks early and drive mitigation strategies.
• Proactively troubleshoot issues and coordinate rapid resolution with relevant stakeholders.
• Maintain program stability in dynamic, high-uncertainty environments.

Technical Oversight

• Work closely with engineering teams to understand system architectures, dependencies, and constraints.
• Ensure project plans reflect real technical realities and priorities.
• Support technical decision-making by balancing tradeoffs across scope, schedule, and risk.

Process Improvement

• Establish and continuously improve project management processes and best practices.
• Leverage metrics and reporting to drive execution discipline and continuous improvement.
• Support agile and hybrid execution models across teams.

Stakeholder Communication & Reporting

• Prepare and deliver clear, concise updates for executive leadership and external stakeholders.
• Maintain transparency on progress, risks, and changes.
• Own program documentation, dashboards, and reporting cadence.

Vendor & Partner Management

• Coordinate with external vendors and manufacturing partners to ensure delivery against requirements and quality standards.
• Manage contractual deliverables and timelines in collaboration with internal teams.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field (advanced degree a plus).
• 5+ years of technical project management experience in environments integrating hardware and software development.
• Experience working directly with DoD Technical Point(s) of Contact (TPOs) and owning execution across the full government contracting lifecycle.
• Proven ability to manage complex, requirements-driven, multidisciplinary programs.
• Strong technical background with the ability to understand and communicate concepts related to:
  
  • Autonomous systems
  • Embedded systems
  • Communications and control software
• Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, JIRA, or similar).
• Experience supporting RFIs, RFPs, and proposal development with technical ownership.
• Familiarity with agile methodologies and continuous improvement practices.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and leadership skills.
• U.S. Citizen required.

Location:

• Preferred: San Diego, CA or Austin, TX

Benefits:

• 100% Employer paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your families
• Life Insurance (Employer Paid)
• Ability to participate in the companies 401k program (Matching)
• 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.