Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Defense (UAV/VTOL Systems)

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Apply promptly! A high volume of applicants is expected for the role as detailed below, do not wait to send your CV.

: Sterling, VA (onsite; hybrid flexibility for local candidates)

This isn’t a “keep the lights on” CTO role.

This is a build, scale, and lead-from-the-front opportunity inside a fast-moving aerospace and defense company redefining what UAV systems can do.

You’ll take ownership of a next-generation VTOL drone platform powered by alternative energy, and lead the technical vision from advanced R&D through real-world deployment. The company is at an inflection point—strong foundation, proven technology direction, and now needs the right technical leader to scale it into a serious player in defense and dual-use markets.

If you’ve ever wanted to step into a role where your decisions directly shape the product, the team, and the trajectory of the company—this is that role.

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Define and drive a scalable, multi-product technology roadmap—not just a single platform.

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Recruit, develop, and lead a high-performance engineering organization across autonomy, avionics, energy systems, and hardware.

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Own the full lifecycle—from concept and prototyping through testing, manufacturing, and field deployment.

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Advance core technologies including hydrogen/alternative energy systems, thermal management, autonomy, and modular architectures.

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Ensure platforms are built for real-world DoD use—reliability, scalability, and mission performance.

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Drive speed without breaking things that matter—balancing startup agility with disciplined engineering.

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Partner closely with executive leadership to align technology with mission, growth, and customer demand.

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– You’re not inheriting a bloated org—you’re building it.
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– Direct application across defense, national security, and critical infrastructure.
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– Energy systems + autonomy + aerospace… not many roles check all three boxes.
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– Work with an established international team while leading U.S. growth. xsgimln

This role is for a , not a caretaker.

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*complex aerospace or drone systems from concept to deployment**
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*VP Engineering / CTO level** in a defense or dual-use environment
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*scale engineering teams and real products—not just prototypes**
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*DoD programs, stakeholders, and procurement realities** without slowing down execution
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: *deep technical detail and executive-level decision making**

* Proven leadership in UAV, aerospace, or advanced defense systems
*integrated hardware + software systems**
*DoD customers, programs, and acquisition pathways**
*system architecture, avionics, autonomy, and energy systems**
* Ability to build teams, culture, and execution discipline from the ground up

: BS required; advanced degrees (MS/PhD) preferred

Executive-level package with flexibility based on experience and impact:

* Competitive base salary
* Performance-based bonus
* Equity participation
* Long-term upside tied to company growth