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What is the difference between Director Unmanned Systems vs Unmanned Systems Engineer?

AspectDirector Unmanned SystemsUnmanned Systems Engineer
Primary RoleOversees unmanned systems programs, strategic planning, and team managementDesigns, develops, and tests unmanned systems and related technologies
Required CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees and leadership experienceBachelor's or master's in engineering or related fields
Work EnvironmentManagement, coordination, and high-level project oversightTechnical development, testing, and engineering tasks
Industry UsageUsed in aerospace, defense, and research organizations for leadership rolesCommonly employed in R&D, manufacturing, and technical teams

The main difference between a Director Unmanned Systems and an Unmanned Systems Engineer lies in their focus and responsibilities. The director manages programs and teams, while the engineer concentrates on technical design and development. Both roles are essential in the unmanned systems industry but serve different functions within organizations.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Director of Unmanned Systems in coordinating cross-functional teams?

A Director of Unmanned Systems often collaborates with engineering, operations, compliance, and business development teams to ensure successful project delivery. One common challenge is aligning the diverse priorities and communication styles of these groups, especially when integrating new technologies or meeting regulatory requirements. It's essential to foster clear communication channels, establish unified goals, and stay updated on evolving industry standards. Balancing technical innovation with operational safety and regulatory compliance is also a key aspect of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Unmanned Systems, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Unmanned Systems, you typically need deep expertise in robotics, aerospace engineering, or a related field, along with significant leadership experience and an advanced degree. Familiarity with unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platforms, regulatory compliance systems, and certifications such as Part 107 Remote Pilot or equivalent are highly valued. Strong strategic planning, communication, and team leadership skills set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring safe, innovative, and compliant operations in rapidly evolving unmanned systems environments.

What are Director Unmanned Systems?

A Director of Unmanned Systems is a senior management professional responsible for overseeing the development, deployment, and operation of unmanned systems such as drones, autonomous vehicles, and robotics within an organization. This role involves strategic planning, program management, compliance with regulations, and collaboration with engineering, operations, and safety teams. The director ensures that unmanned systems align with business goals and meet all technical and safety requirements. They may also be involved in research and development, budgeting, and stakeholder communication. This position is common in industries like defense, aerospace, logistics, and agriculture.
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Infographic showing various Director Unmanned Systems job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Senior Subject Matter Expert- Unmanned Systems

Senior Subject Matter Expert- Unmanned Systems

CACI International, Inc.

Remote

$107K - $146K/yr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Senior Subject Matter Expert- Unmanned Systems
Job Category: Engineering
Time Type: Part time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret
Employee Type: Part-Time On-Call
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%
Type of Travel: Continental US
* * *
The Opportunity:
  • CACI is seeking a highly experienced Part-Time On-Call Senior SME Consultant to provide expert advisory support in the field of unmanned systems, maritime autonomy, advanced technology integration, and theater-level operational employment.
  • This role is intended for a uniquely qualified senior technical and operational leader who can advise government customers on the employment, integration, risk, limitations, and mission utility of unmanned and autonomous systems in operational environments.
  • The selected consultant will support customer requirements on an as-needed basis, providing senior-level analysis, technical consultation, operational insight, and strategic recommendations related to unmanned systems operating in theater. The position requires the ability to engage credibly with senior government, military, engineering, acquisition, and operational stakeholders.
  • This is a part-time, on-call position designed for a nationally recognized expert whose value is derived from decades of direct experience across Navy advanced technology, autonomy, weapons systems, engineering, program leadership, and operational support.

Responsibilities:
  • Provide expert consultation on unmanned systems, maritime autonomy, autonomous operations, and theater-level employment considerations.
  • Advise government customers on operational feasibility, technical risk, mission integration, employment concepts, and fielding considerations for unmanned or autonomous capabilities.
  • Support technical exchanges, strategy sessions, design reviews, operational planning discussions, and customer briefings.
  • Assess the applicability of unmanned systems to real-world operational environments, including maritime, expeditionary, and theater support contexts.
  • Provide insight into technology maturation, transition pathways, acquisition considerations, and operational adoption challenges.
  • Participate in surge support, customer-directed advisory sessions, and short-duration tasking requiring senior expert judgment.
  • Translate complex technical and operational issues into clear, actionable recommendations for senior customer stakeholders.
  • Provide independent technical perspective on autonomy, advanced weapons systems, emerging technologies, and operational integration.

Qualifications:
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering, science, technology, defense studies, or a related discipline.
  • 20+ years of progressively responsible experience in military, government, engineering, acquisition, advanced technology, or operationally focused technical leadership.
  • Demonstrated experience with unmanned systems, autonomous systems, maritime autonomy, advanced technology programs, or operational employment of emerging capabilities.
  • Experience advising senior government, military, or acquisition stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated ability to support high-impact customer engagements with limited ramp-up time.
  • Ability to operate effectively in a part-time, on-call, consultative capacity.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to brief senior leaders.
  • Clearance eligibility; TS/SCI eligibility

Desired:
  • Prior senior military, SES-equivalent, senior civilian, or major command-level technical leadership experience.
  • Experience with NAVSEA, Navy acquisition, maritime systems, autonomy, unmanned systems, advanced weapons, or operational technology transition.
  • Experience supporting deployed, theater-level, or contingency operations.
  • Master's degree in engineering, technology, business, or a related field.
  • Recognized subject matter expertise in maritime autonomy, unmanned systems, neuromorphic computing, directed energy, advanced weapons, or emerging naval capabilities.

What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
Since this position can be worked in more than one location, the range shown is the national average for the position.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$105,100-$231,100
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.

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