Director, Advanced Missions Group - Tactical Communications & Networking

The posting, as Pdwcareers wrote it

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. We are not here to make promises; we are here to deliver real systems with real capabilities for real missions.

You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. We operate by a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together. This is how we build advantage and how we help protect our service members, our communities, and our country.

Now, we’re entering a new phase of growth and are looking for a Director of Tactical Communications and Networking to join the Advanced Mission Group (AMG). This individual will serve as PDW's internal and external subject-matter expert for tactical communications, data transport, network interoperability, and the integration of unmanned systems into joint and coalition command-and-control ecosystems.

The ideal candidate is a former operational communicator who understands how networks are planned, built, secured, operated, and repaired under real mission conditions. Preferred backgrounds include service as a SOCOM RTO, Special Forces Communications Sergeant, joint tactical communications specialist, or a conventional military signal leader responsible for large tactical or operational networks.

This is not an enterprise information-technology role or a radio-maintenance position. The Director will anticipate changes in the tactical networking market, shape PDW's connectivity strategy, evaluate partners and emerging technologies, and ensure PDW aircraft, payloads, autonomy, and mission applications can exchange the right information across tactical and strategic networks. The role will work closely with AMG's Fires and Electronic Warfare leaders and the Field Software Engineer to turn operational needs and interface standards into field-demonstrable capability.

What You’ll Do

• Develop and maintain a forward-looking tactical communications and networking strategy for PDW unmanned systems, payloads, ground-control equipment, and mission applications.
• Track customer requirements, acquisition priorities, operational lessons, standards, waveforms, commercial technologies, and competitor activity to identify emerging integration needs before they become formal requirements.
• Translate operator workflows and joint-force networking concepts into actionable product requirements, interface-control documents,

[…]
t the day and lift or carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment, tactical communications equipment, computers, network hardware, electronic test equipment, and unmanned systems support equipment. Must be physically capable of the assigned duties.

Work Environment
This position operates across office, laboratory, manufacturing, flight-line, range, command-post, and customer field environments. Work may involve outdoor weather, noise, dust, limited connectivity, non-climate-controlled spaces, irregular schedules, and the use of personal protective equipment. The role requires frequent cross-functional collaboration as well as independent technical leadership during travel and field events.

Benefits
PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL and Denver, CO locations.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement
PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

This position will have an annual salary and benefits. The salary range provided is a guideline rather than a fixed limit. Individual pay is determined by factors including geography, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.