Worker Type
Regular
Job Description
Summary
The Capture Manager works directly with key Army customers to lead a fast-growing portfolio of AI-enhanced electro-optical targeting, tracking, and gun sight systems. These technologies combine advanced optics with artificial intelligence-driven target recognition and tracking algorithms, giving warfighters a decisive edge in detection, engagement, and survivability.
This portfolio is expected to be widely fielded across the Army force structure within 24 months, with additional growth opportunities in international markets.
You'll play a key role in Army modernization efforts tied to:
Abrams Main Battle Tank modernization
XM30 Infantry Fighting Vehicle
Robotic and autonomous ground platforms
Other high-priority Army programs under PEO GCS and GVSC
Position Responsibilities
Lead capture strategy for AI-enhanced EO/IR systems with PEO GCS, GVSC, TACOM, and prime contractors.
Develop and maintain trusted relationships with Detroit-area Army stakeholders.
Shape proposals and capability briefings that emphasize the AI advantage in target acquisition and tracking.
Build a qualified pipeline aligned to Army modernization and soldier lethality priorities.
Provide market intelligence, competitor assessments, and insights into AI/ML applications in defense optics.
Partner with engineers to ensure customer requirements translate into AI-enabled solutions that are operationally relevant.
Other duties as assigned
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)
Bachelor's Degree in a related field of study is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
5+ years in defense business development / capture management
Knowledge of electro-optical systems and AI-enabled targeting/tracking solutions.
Demonstrated success engaging with PEO GCS, GVSC, or Army acquisition offices.
Established relationships in the Detroit defense ecosystem (TACOM, primes, integrators).
Strong communication, networking, and negotiation skills.
Strong understanding of government proposal and program requirements
Strong understanding of regulatory requirements for US government programs
Strong understanding of budget and schedule process and able to track and forecast using business analysis technique
Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills & Experience)
Experience with vehicle integration of AI & EO/IR systems.
Familiarity with Army acquisition processes and modernization portfolios.
Understanding of C5ISR, fire control, active protection, and AI/ML applications in defense.Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills
Performs well in a rapidly growing organization with rapidly changing requirements and sales targets
Highly self-motivated with strong problem solving and multi-tasking skills
Uses vision to think beyond the immediate situation, explore multiple potential paths, and adapt decision-making style based on the situational circumstances
Inspires, motivates, and empowers people to deliver organizational goals, while also delivering value back to employees
Brings organizational values to life using personality, uniqueness and the creation of a shared vision
Champions the process of change and promotes a culture of quick adaptation while helping others deal with the effects of change
The ability to develop and maintain internal and external trusting, professional relationships
Physical Demands
Ability to work in an office environment (Constant)
Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)
Special Requirements
Must be a U.S. citizen & eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.
Most engagements in the Detroit defense corridor (Warren, MI).
Occasional travel to: Washington, D.C.; Columbus, GA; Albuquerque, NM.
Occasional international travel for FMS and allied programs.
Clearance Level
Secret
The salary range for this role is:
$107,370 - $152,250
AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.
ITAR Requirement:
T_ _his position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.
Benefits : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits .
We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.
Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.
Who We Are
Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world's most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution's permanent collection in Washington, DC.
Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty - and succeed.
What We Do
Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company's hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.
We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.
ITAR
U.S. Citizenship required. Must be willing to work on government contracts and have the ability to obtain a security clearance.
About AV:
AV isn't for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best.
We don't just build defense technology-we redefine what's possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.
Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian-but we're not building history, we're building what's next.
If you're ready to build technology that matters-with speed, scale, and purpose-there's no better place to do it than AV.
Careers at AeroVironment (https://www.avinc.com/careers/our-team)
