About this role
Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
Job Description:
At Shield AI, we’re redefining the battlespace with autonomy-enabled airpower. As part of our global expansion, we’re looking for a bold and visionary Director – USAF Advanced Systems to lead strategic sales, customer engagement, and capture efforts for our X-BAT and other advanced systems supporting USAF markets. This is a high-impact role at the cutting edge of aerospace and defense innovation. You’ll be on the front lines, driving adoption and revenue for Shield AI’s technologies by engaging directly with top-tier USAF stakeholders.
You’ll bring a rare mix of defense sales expertise, technical credibility, and a deep understanding of USAF missions and acquisition frameworks. From identifying new opportunities to closing complex deals and launching early-stage programs, you’ll own the entire advanced system business development lifecycle for USAF customers.
The Advanced Systems Program Director – Air Force will lead Shield AI’s Advanced Systems programmatic capture actions involving Air Force opportunities. This individual will guide, shape, and inform X-BAT and other advanced system capture actions as Shield AI’s lead agent for program office interaction and design.
What you'll do:
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Lead Shield AI’s work with acquisition offices shaping and responding to solicitations.
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Drive teams toward multi-year strategic Air Force program wins and close high-value contracts.
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Build and maintain trusted relationships within program offices and manage industry partner relationships.
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Anticipate customer needs and influence policy, requirements, and solicitations to positively align with Shield AI portfolios.
Required qualifications:
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10+ years strategic capture / Air Force acquisition experience
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Deep knowledge of Air Force acquisition and/or requirements processes
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Experience with emerging technologies
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Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills with the ability to cross-collaborate across technical and operational teams
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Active Secret clearance (TS preferred)
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DAWIA Program Manager - Advanced certification
Preferred qualifications:
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Advanced degree in business, engineering, or a related field
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Air Force program capture within previous 5 years
LI-AA2
LG
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.