Head of Autonomy

This position is posted by Jobgether on behalf of a partner company. We are currently looking for a Head of Autonomy in Canada.

This role offers the opportunity to lead the design, development, and deployment of cutting-edge autonomous systems for spacecraft operating in highly dynamic and contested environments. You will define the autonomy roadmap end-to-end, building algorithms and AI-driven frameworks that enable real-time decision-making, multi-agent coordination, and adaptive operations. Leading a small, elite team, you will translate strategic objectives into actionable technical solutions while collaborating cross-functionally with software, hardware, and mission operations teams. This position combines strategic vision, technical leadership, and operational rigor to create autonomous capabilities that set new industry standards in space operations.

Accountabilities:

• Own and execute the technical vision and autonomy roadmap, translating strategic goals into actionable algorithmic milestones
• Develop autonomous decision-making systems for spacecraft operating under uncertainty, communication delays, and adversarial conditions
• Design game-theoretic frameworks and multi-agent strategies for space operations, anticipating adversary behavior and optimizing response
• Integrate AI/ML capabilities for collaboration, anomaly detection, pattern recognition, and adaptive behavior in flight-critical systems
• Lead recruitment, mentorship, and development of a world-class autonomy team with expertise in control theory, game theory, and AI
• Collaborate across flight software, GNC, hardware, and mission operations teams to ensure seamless system integration
• Drive maturation of research into flight-ready autonomous capabilities while balancing certification and safety requirements
• Represent the technical vision externally through publications, conferences, and community engagement

Requirements:

• PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Control Theory, Applied Mathematics, or related field (exceptional MS + extensive experience considered)
• 8+ years of experience developing autonomous systems, with at least 3 years in technical leadership roles
• Deep expertise in at least one of: game theory (multi-agent systems, adversarial reasoning), optimal control (MPC, trajectory optimization), or modern AI/ML (reinforcement learning, imitation learning, transformers)
• Proven track record of shipping autonomous systems for real-world applications
• Demonstrated experience recruiting, mentoring, and leading high-performing technical teams
• Strong analytical, algorithmic, and problem-solving skills, with hands-on experience in C++ and Python
• Familiarity with probabilistic reasoning, state estimation, and planning under uncertainty
• Ability to obtain or maintain required security clearances (strongly preferred)
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate cross-functionally and articulate complex autonomy concepts externally

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary: CAD $175,000–$360,000 (depending on experience and location)
• Equity and long-term incentive opportunities
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, HRA/HSA options
• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Retirement plans including 401(k) or equivalent
• Parental leave and family support benefits
• Opportunities for professional growth, research engagement, and industry recognition
• Flexible remote work options with occasional travel for collaboration and mission-critical integration

Why Apply Through Jobgether?

We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team.

We appreciate your interest and wish you the best!

Why Apply Through Jobgether?

Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.