Senior Director, Air Force Strategic Capture (R4047) at Shield AI

United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Defense, Aerospace, AviationIndustries

Requirements

10+ years of experience in business development, strategic capture supporting the U.S. Air Force or DoD
Deep knowledge of USAF organizational structure, acquisition systems, and decision-making processes
Demonstrated success leading major captures ($50M+ value) through the full lifecycle
Proven ability to influence senior USAF and DoD stakeholders
Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills with an ability to collaborate across technical and operational teams
Active Secret clearance (Top Secret preferred)
Preferred qualifications
Experience with emerging technologies in autonomy, AI, C2, aircraft systems, or ISR
Prior military service, particularly within Air Force acquisition, operations, or requirements communities
Advanced degree in business, engineering, or a related field

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a comprehensive Air Force strategic capture strategy that spans all Shield AI business units and product lines
Identify, qualify, and prioritize strategic opportunities aligned with USAF modernization goals (e.g., Collaborative Combat Aircraft, JADC2, ABMS, and Next Generation Air Dominance)
Build and maintain trusted relationships across USAF decision-makers, including MAJCOMs, AFWERX, SAF/AQ, AFRL, ACC, AFSOC, AMC, and PEO organizations
Serve as Shield AI’s key Air Force interface for strategic discussions, ensuring a unified message and coordinated engagement across all company divisions
Anticipate customer needs, understand program funding and priorities, and proactively align Shield AI offerings to emerging requirements

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Business DevelopmentStrategic CaptureUSAFDoDAcquisitionCapture StrategyJADC2ABMSCollaborative Combat AircraftNext Generation Air DominanceAFWERXAFRLProgram Funding

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary range is $210,000 - $320,000 a year, plus bonus, benefits, and equity for full-time regular employees.

Is this role remote or does it require working from an office?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What are the key required qualifications for this role?

Candidates need 10+ years of experience in business development or strategic capture supporting the U.S. Air Force or DoD, deep knowledge of USAF structure and processes, success leading major $50M+ captures, ability to influence senior stakeholders, strong leadership and communication skills, and an active Secret clearance (Top Secret preferred).

What does the benefits package include?

Full-time regular employees receive pay within the listed range plus bonus, benefits, and equity; temporary employees get pay plus a temporary benefits package after 60 days.

What makes a strong candidate stand out for this position?

Prioritize candidates with experience in emerging technologies like autonomy, AI, C2, aircraft systems, or ISR, prior military service in Air Force acquisition or operations, and an advanced degree in business, engineering, or a related field.

Shield AI

Develops AI and autonomous systems for defense

About Shield AI

Shield AI specializes in creating artificial intelligence and autonomous systems specifically for the defense industry. The company develops AI-powered systems, including autonomous drones, that assist military operations, especially in environments where GPS and communication may not be available. This technology allows for safer and more efficient defense operations. Shield AI differentiates itself from competitors by focusing on advanced AI capabilities and securing significant contracts with government and military clients, such as the multi-billion dollar EWAAC contract. The company's goal is to enhance operational capabilities and safety in military contexts, ultimately aiming to protect lives through its innovative solutions.

San Diego, CaliforniaHeadquarters

2015Year Founded

$772.8MTotal Funding

DEBTCompany Stage

AI & Machine Learning, DefenseIndustries

501-1,000Employees

Benefits

Medical Insurance Coverage

Long Term Disability Insurance

Health Care FSA and Dependent Care FSA

Employee Assistance Program

Subsidized Gym Membership

Pet Insurance

Competitive Compensation

Retirement Services

Life Insurance

Parental Leave

Bereavement Support

Flexible Work Hours

PTO

Paid Holidays

Commuter Benefits

Relaxed Dress Code

Yearly Swag Items

Unlimited Snacks

Bottomless Beverages

Annual Celebrations

Work From Home Benefits

Standing Desks and Widescreen Monitors

Risks

Increased competition from companies like Waymo could divert investment from Shield AI.

Geopolitical tensions may challenge the JSW Defence partnership for V-BAT production in India.

Dependency on Palantir's infrastructure may limit Shield AI's operational flexibility.

Differentiation

Shield AI's Hivemind is the first autonomous AI pilot deployed in combat since 2018.

Strategic partnerships with Palantir and JSW Defence enhance technological capabilities and market reach.

Shield AI's V-BAT drone is selected for a $198 million U.S. Coast Guard contract.

Upsides

Increased demand for autonomous systems in defense boosts Shield AI's market potential.

Successful multi-aircraft autonomous flight tests showcase advanced AI piloting capabilities.

Significant investment in robotics indicates a robust market for Shield AI's offerings.

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