Mission Operator - UGV Ground Systems

The future of defense will be decided by those who field intelligent machines at scale. At Scout AI, we’re developing Fury, the first robotic foundation model for defense, to give U.S. forces overwhelming, adaptable, and autonomous power across every domain. Fury enables human operators to command fleets of robots through natural language, and empowers those machines to sense, decide, and act together as one. This mission will ask everything of us: urgency, precision, and relentless work. The Role We’re hiring mission operators to plan, coordinate, and execute real-world testing and data collection for Scout’s autonomous systems. This role owns the execution of field operations, leading ground and air teams to generate the data and validation required to build and deploy autonomy at scale. You will be responsible for synchronizing multiple teams and platforms in dynamic environments, ensuring operations are executed safely, efficiently, and with high technical rigor. This includes coordinating UGVs and UAS, managing test objectives, and driving disciplined execution at our test site. You will operate at the intersection of engineering and mission execution, translating technical goals into executable field plans, and ensuring high-quality data is collected under real-world conditions. This role requires leadership under pressure, strong operational judgment, and the ability to solve problems in real time. Responsibilities Define, track, and deliver against field operations metrics, ensuring data collection targets are consistently met across testing cyclesPlan and execute field operations involving coordinated ground and air systems for testing and data collectionLead and manage field teams (operators, engineers, technicians) during deployments and test eventsTranslate engineering and product objectives into detailed, executable test plans and mission profilesAct as the on-site decision maker, ensuring safe, efficient, and disciplined execution of operationsCoordinate timing, positioning, and tasking of UGV and UAS assets during missionsEnsure high-quality data collection, including proper sensor configuration, logging, and validationTroubleshoot operational and technical issues in real time, coordinating closely with engineering teamsOwn site setup, logistics, and operational readiness for field deploymentsDevelop and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) for testing, data collection, and mission executionCapture and communicate detailed feedback from the field to engineering and product teamsSupport customer demonstrations and operational evaluations, ensuring professional execution and system performance Qualifications Prior military experience (officer or senior enlisted), preferably in combat arms, aviation, reconnaissance, or technical unitsBachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Robotics, or related field)7+ years of experience leading teams in field operations, testing, or mission-driven environmentsProven ability to coordinate complex operations involving multiple teams and systemsStrong technical foundation with the ability to understand and troubleshoot integrated hardware/software systemsExperience operating in dynamic, high-pressure environments with incomplete informationDemonstrated leadership, decision-making, and accountability in real-world operationsStrong communication skills and ability to align technical and operational teamsMust be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export controlled information or facilitiesPassion about defense of the United States and its alliesMay be expected to obtain and hold a U.S. Top Secret security clearance Why Join Scout Work on the world’s most important frontier, ensuring U.S. and allied dominance in the age of intelligent machinesBe a core part of a team building the first defense-specific robotic foundation modelCollaborate with some of the top engineers in autonomy, AI, and national securitySee your work deployed on real systemsHelp define the future of intelligent defense systemsBacked by Draper Associates, Booz Allen Ventures, and other top investors Benefits Competitive base salary and bonusMeaningful equityPremium medical, dental, and vision plans with $0 paycheck contributionCompetitive PTO and company holiday calendarCatered lunch daily and fully stocked kitchenEV chargingRelocation assistance (depending on role eligibility)