Product Manager / UAV/drones / Uncrewed Systems / Hybrid / Chicago

Product Manager, Uncrewed Systems
Hybrid - Chicago, IL or San Francisco, CA
Full-Time

A fast-growing critical communications and autonomous systems group is seeking a Product Manager, Uncrewed Systems to lead product development across their satellite-powered software + hardware ecosystem. This team builds rugged, mission-critical technology trusted by commercial, defense, and public-safety operators working at the edge of connectivity.

This is a standout opportunity for a product leader who thrives in complex systems environments. You'll own a high-impact uncrewed systems product line end-to-end - spanning autonomous platforms, robotics, sensors, and embedded integrations. If you want meaningful ownership, work that directly supports teams in the field, and the chance to grow alongside a sharp, fast-moving engineering org, this role offers a rare blend of autonomy, mission, and career acceleration.
Required Skills & Experience

• Proven experience managing product development in a startup or fast-paced environment
• Hands-on expertise with uncrewed systems (e.g., Group 1-5 UAS)
• Familiarity with SDK development and API-driven embedded system integrations
• Strong organizational, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills
• Ability to synthesize customer feedback and operational insights into clear product priorities
• Technical fluency to collaborate with mechanical, electrical, software, and manufacturing engineers

Desired Skills & Experience

• Background in satellite communications, robotics, autonomous platforms, or ruggedized hardware
• Experience developing proposals for U.S. government-funded programs (SBIR, APFIT, CRADA, etc.)
• Experience delivering products used in defense, aerospace, emergency response, or public safety use cases
• Prior exposure to field deployments or integrating technologies with third-party platforms

What You Will Be Doing Tech Breakdown

• 40% Systems Integration (uncrewed systems, embedded hardware/software)
• 40% Product Strategy & Roadmapping
• 20% Government & External Stakeholder Collaboration

Daily Responsibilities

• 50% Hands-On Product Execution (requirements, roadmaps, field deployment support)
• 20% Program Management (government-funded R&D deliverables, timelines, milestones)
• 30% Cross-Functional Collaboration (engineering, BD, customers, third-party partners)

The Offer You will receive the following benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Vacation/PTO
• Equity/Stock Options
• Hybrid work flexibility
• Opportunity to work on mission-critical systems used globally

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the US on a full-time basis now and in the future.