Job Description

Program Overview

About The Role

Peraton is a next-generation national security company delivering trusted and disruptive solutions to the most challenging problems facing government agencies in defense, intelligence, space, cyber, and civilian sectors. Through our mission-focused innovation and deep technical expertise, we operate on the cutting edge of national security.

We are seeking a technically strong, mission-driven Sr. Director to guide the strategic direction, execution, and growth of aviation- and airspace-focused research, development, and transition efforts at Peraton Labs. This is a high-impact leadership role at the intersection of science, technology, and national airspace modernization, directly supporting the FAA and other stakeholders in advancing the future of aviation systems.

Position Overview:

As the Sr. Director - Peraton Labs FAA , you will direct a portfolio of programs and emerging opportunities focused on AI-enabled autonomy, air traffic systems, UAS integration, satellite navigation, and other transformative capabilities for the National Airspace System (NAS) . This role integrates technical leadership, program management, and personnel development , requiring you to work cross-functionally across Peraton, FAA sponsors, and external partners.

You will be responsible for shaping the technical direction of our FAA-aligned work while ensuring effective execution, delivery, and strategic alignment with customer priorities.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic & Technical Leadership

• Serve as the senior technical and programmatic leader for Peraton Labs’ FAA-aligned initiatives and R&D campaigns.
• Define and guide the technical roadmap for airspace modernization, AI-enabled aviation, and autonomy research efforts.
• Provide scientific and engineering oversight across research, prototyping, testing, and transition of complex aviation systems.
• Influence FAA and government strategies around UAS integration, agentic AI, satellite-based navigation, and air traffic automation.
• Represent Peraton Labs as a subject matter expert (SME) in external engagements, including with FAA program managers, national labs, academia, and industry.

Programmatic Execution & Portfolio Management

• Oversee a portfolio of multi-million dollar aviation and technology programs, ensuring high-quality delivery across scope, schedule, and budget.
• Drive program execution through rigorous systems engineering practices, milestone planning, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Lead proposal efforts and contribute to capture strategy for future FAA aviation programs.
• Align technical and operational priorities across contract deliverables, R&D goals, and emerging sponsor needs.

People Leadership & Staff Development

• Lead, mentor, and grow a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, and analysts working on aviation, AI, and autonomy projects.
• Provide career development guidance, performance management, and technical mentoring to mid- and junior-level staff.
• Foster a culture of innovation, technical rigor, mission alignment, and accountability.
• Promote diversity of thought and support the development of early-career professionals in emerging technologies.

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship Required.
• Must have the ability to obtain / maintain a Public Trust clearance. 
• 18+ years of relevant technical and leadership experience
• Demonstrated experience leading R&D and transition of complex systems in aviation, autonomy, or AI domains.
• Proven record of managing federal programs and delivering results in research-intensive, high-assurance environments.
• Strong understanding of AI/ML, autonomy, agent-based systems, or automation in regulated domains.
• Excellent communication skills and experience briefing senior government and internal leadership.

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to FAA programs or NAS systems.
• Advanced degrees such as a master’s or Ph.D. strongly preferred.
• Advanced knowledge of aviation systems, UAS integration, AI applications, or satellite navigation systems.
• Experience participating in national advisory committees or providing strategic guidance for federal research programs.
• Familiarity with FAA research environments or facilities like the William J. Hughes Technical Center.
• Published research or recognized contributions to aerospace, human factors, or emerging aviation technologies.
• Familiarity with FAA regulations, national airspace policies, or international aviation standards (e.g., ICAO).

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SCA / Union / Intern Rate or Range

Details

Target Salary Range: $176,000 - $282,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

Benefits Statement: Peraton offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, health savings account, short/long term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off (PTO) for vacation, and company paid holidays. A full listing of available benefits can be viewed at

Application Duration Statement: The application period for the job is estimated to be 30 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. 

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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