Head of Engineering - Hardware
Havoc AI
About Us:
HavocAI is an innovative defense technology company making scalable maritime autonomy a reality. We are pioneering an end-to-end solution for planning, tasking and control of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs). As we continue to quickly grow, we are looking for motivated individuals that are inspired to work within an extremely energetic, creative, and innovative team that is passionate about maritime robotics and exploring the open ocean. We work in a highly dynamic environment where collaboration and idea sharing are a way of life. We are looking for a skilled Mechanical Engineer who will participate on all product stages from research and development to design and manufacture, through to installation and final commissioning.
About the Role:
As the Head of Engineering, Hardware, you will be responsible for the technical strategy, execution, and delivery of all hardware systems for our Autonomous Surface Vessels. This includes overseeing mechanical, electrical, and structural designs to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance. You will guide cross-functional teams through concept development, prototyping, testing, and deployment, ensuring that all hardware meets stringent safety, reliability, and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership
- Set the overarching hardware vision and roadmap, aligning technical priorities with organizational objectives.
- Drive innovation in mechanical, electrical, and marine systems, ensuring continuous improvement and market differentiation.
- Hardware Engineering Oversight
- Direct the design and integration of vessel structures, propulsion systems, power management, and sensor arrays.
- Implement rigorous testing and certification procedures to ensure reliability and performance in diverse marine conditions.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Coordinate with product management, operations, and external partners to align deliverables with project timelines and business goals.
- Ensure seamless integration among hardware subsystems to deliver cohesive, high-performing vessels.
- Team Management & Development
- Recruit, mentor, and lead multidisciplinary hardware engineering teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and technical excellence.
- Encourage knowledge sharing, continuous learning, and professional growth within the organization.
- Quality Assurance & Compliance
- Oversee quality management processes, including design reviews and rigorous hardware testing.
- Ensure adherence to relevant maritime regulations, industry standards, and certifications.
- Resource & Budget Management
- Develop and manage hardware budgets, optimizing resource allocation to meet project milestones.
- Monitor project risks and implement mitigation strategies to maintain on-schedule, on-budget delivery.
Qualifications:
- Technical Expertise
- Proven experience in hardware system design, mechanical/electrical integration, power systems, and sensor technologies.
- Knowledge of marine engineering principles, propulsion systems, and regulatory standards is a plus.
- Familiarity with embedded systems and control hardware is beneficial.
- Leadership & Soft Skills
- Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire teams, drive complex projects from concept to deployment, and thrive in a dynamic environment.
- Exceptional communication, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
- Education
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Must be a US Citizen and eligible to obtain a Secret Clearance
Location:
- This position must be based in the Greater Boston area
Compensation and Benefits:
- The target salary range for this position is $180,000 - $225,000
- 100% Employer paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your families
- Ability to participate in the companies 401k program
- Unlimited PTO policy with an enforced 2 week minimum
- Generous Equity Package
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.
We strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented groups, including but not limited to women, BIPOC individuals, people with disabilities, Veterans, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, to apply and bring their unique perspectives to our team.