Mission Operations Specialist - San Diego
Havoc AI
About Us:
Collaborative autonomy is how self-tasking teams of machines will solve hard human problems, and HavocAI is an unquestioned leader in collaborative autonomy. We set the standard for autonomous surface vessels for a wide range of defense and commercial maritime missions. Success requires us to grow quickly, and we’re looking for teammates who are passionate about solving hard problems, about pushing the envelope, and about preventing conflict and saving lives. Ambition is welcome to apply within.
About the Role:
Mission Operations Specialists orchestrate the deployment and operation of HavocAI platforms and HavocCloud products in support of customer missions. This role leads the planning and execution of deployments for HavocAI’s Autonomous Surface Vehicle (ASV) platforms and HavocControl software, working cross-functionally to ensure successful fielding, high system performance, and strong customer outcomes.
This position sits at the intersection of operations, customer success, and product development. You will be deeply engaged with customers, maintain a constant pulse on how they interact with the HavocAI stack, and translate real-world operational insight into product improvements.
Key Responsibilities and Requirements:
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Deploy and Operate HavocAI Platforms
Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of deployments for HavocAI ASV platforms, HavocControl software, and HavocCloud products.
Collaborate with engineering, logistics, and technical operations teams to deploy systems to the field and ensure operational readiness.
Train and support end users, ensuring effective adoption and high performance of HavocAI systems.
Monitor system performance during operations and coordinate rapid issue resolution with internal teams.
Drive Customer Success
Build trusted, long-term partnerships with customers by understanding their missions, constraints, and objectives.
Support immediate mission needs while identifying future opportunities where HavocAI technology can increase customer effectiveness.
Clearly articulate HavocAI’s value proposition and mission impact to stakeholders ranging from operators to senior leadership.
Serve as a key point of contact during deployments and operational engagements.
Shape Product Development
Work closely with Product, GTM, and Engineering teams to shape HavocAI products to meet defense and national security mission requirements.
Translate customer workflows, concepts of operations, and field feedback into actionable product insights.
Advocate for customer needs and help prioritize product improvements based on operational impact.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Coordinate across nearly every HavocAI team, including business development, engineering, finance, legal, contracting, and technical operations.
Ensure stakeholders are aligned, informed, and engaged throughout deployment and mission execution.
Develop a deep understanding of what it takes to successfully deliver complex hardware and software systems to defense customers.
Required Qualifications:
U.S. Citizen and eligible to obtain a U.S. security clearance.
Willingness to travel up to 50%, including field deployments and customer engagements.
Based in or willing to relocate to San Diego, CA.
Experience leading or supporting operational deployments of complex technical systems.
Strong customer-facing communication skills with the ability to engage both technical and non-technical audiences.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience in maritime operations, unmanned systems, defense technology, or mission-critical field operations.
Military or government operational experience.
Familiarity with fielding, training, or sustaining hardware/software systems in operational environments.
Ability to translate operational needs into product or engineering requirements.
Benefits:
100% Employer paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your families
Life Insurance (Employer Paid)
Ability to participate in the companies 401k program (Matching)
Unlimited PTO policy with an enforced 2 week minimum
Equity Package
Work / Home Office Stipend
Global Entry
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.
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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.
Compensation Range: $100K - $160K