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Chief of Field Operations and Test

Havoc AI

Havoc AI

Operations
Rumford, ME, USA · Rumford, ME, USA · United States
USD 125k-175k / year + Equity
Posted on Aug 20, 2025

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.


About the Role:
As part of the Field Operations team at HavocAI, you will play a critical role in the global deployment and sustainment of HavocAI’s advanced autonomous systems. You’ll lead and mentor Field Test Engineers and specialists through complex product deployments and on-site problem-solving, advise cross-functional teams on operational strategies to maximize technical performance, and deliver actionable feedback to our engineering teams to drive continuous improvement. Your work will span both local and forward-deployed operations in challenging environments, ensuring the successful mission execution of HavocAI technologies and shaping their long-term operational readiness.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and mentor a team of Field Test Engineers and Specialists to deliver cutting-edge autonomous systems across multiple defense programs.
  • Oversee operational planning, execution, and risk management for diverse Autonomous platforms in both local and global deployments.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate advanced hardware and AI-driven autonomy, pushing the limits of current capabilities.
  • Coordinate testing and operations with government customers, partners, and vendors, ensuring seamless execution and technical excellence.
  • Contribute to system design improvements, user documentation, and mission planning tools for next-generation capabilities.
  • Travel up to 50%

Qualifications:

  • Proven leader with technical expertise in at least one of the following disciplines: Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Ocean Engineering.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to delegate effectively, inspire teams, and foster a collaborative, mission-focused work environment.
  • Ability to adapt rapidly in fast-paced, high-stakes environments, progressing quickly to a Maritime Autonomy field expert in support of internal field test engineers and external government customers.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving skills in unstructured situations, with the ability to assemble the right personnel mix to ensure mission success.
  • Skilled in developing complex operational and logistics plans to deploy people, equipment, and resources efficiently over long distances and in unfamiliar locations.
  • Extensive hands-on technical experience in field operations, systems administration, or test environments.
  • Proven experience working with cross-functional engineering teams and government stakeholders, with the ability to reconcile diverse perspectives into unified action.
  • Willingness to travel up to 50%, including significant offshore operations aboard vessels of varying sizes.
  • Must be comfortable in Open Water situations
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Top Secret security clearance.
  • Must be a US Citizen

Preferred Skills:

  • Developing strategic plans that align HavocAI objectives with government and commercial mission needs for deploying, fielding, and operating advanced robotic systems.
  • Leading high-performing teams in operating and testing complex systems, ideally in maritime environments.
  • Creating, maintaining, and executing operational procedures for diverse, mission-critical equipment.
  • Navigating government acquisition processes, reporting requirements, and contract management.
  • Directing on-deck operations with precision and safety.
  • Applying strong mechanical and electronics skills in field and test environments.
  • Building trusted relationships with government customers to ensure mission success.

Location:

  • Greater Providence, RI

Compensation and Benefits:

  • The target salary range for this position is $125,000 - $175,000.
  • 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
  • Equity Package
  • Work / Home Office Stipend
  • Global Entry Re-Imbursement
  • 16 Week Paid Parental Leave
  • Monthly Health and Wellness Stipend


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.