Spear AI is seeking a Technical Program Manager (TPM) to lead our Duluth operations, focusing on the deployment and maintenance of unmanned maritime sensor systems in Lake Superior. Spear AI serves the national security industry, providing hardware, software, and data solutions across classification levels for operational deployment. As a rapidly growing company committed to continuous fielding and rapid development, we're building cutting-edge maritime monitoring systems that initially focus on acoustics but will expand to other modalities and mobile platforms. This on-site position offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of hardware engineering, environmental science, and defense technology in one of the world's largest freshwater ecosystems.
The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader who manages both technical operations and facilities while coordinating between field teams and engineering support. As a senior member of our organization on the ground at this integral hub, you will be responsible for creating and maintaining relationships within the local community, establishing Spear AI's presence and reputation in the region. This role requires someone who thrives in dynamic environments and can effectively bridge the gap between hardware operations, software systems, and stakeholder requirements in the national security space. You'll be responsible for maintaining operational excellence while driving continuous improvement in our Lake Superior monitoring initiatives, spending time both in the lab and out on the water. The TPM must balance the demands of defense contracting with the agility of a growing technology company.
Responsibilities
Lead deployment and maintenance operations for our unmanned maritime sensor systems throughout Lake Superior, ensuring optimal performance and data collection capabilities
Organize and execute complex field operations, coordinating multiple teams, resources, and logistics for successful maritime deployments
Manage all Duluth facilities, including laboratory spaces, storage areas, and deployment equipment
Supervise and coordinate hardware and labeling team members in the Duluth office, providing leadership and technical guidance
Collaborate effectively with geographically dispersed teams across multiple locations, ensuring seamless communication and project alignment
Serve as primary liaison between field operations and engineering support teams, effectively communicating and escalating hardware and software issues for timely resolution
Build and maintain strategic relationships with local community partners, government agencies, research institutions, and industry stakeholders to support organizational growth and mission success
Manage project timelines and deliverables for hardware and software tools that support buoy operations, ensuring on-time delivery and deployment
Handle conflict resolution and problem-solving for on-site operational challenges
Develop and maintain detailed project documentation, deployment schedules, and maintenance protocols
Track and report operational metrics, system performance, and project progress to stakeholders
Coordinate with cross-functional teams including engineering, data science, and external partners to ensure seamless integration of buoy systems
Travel approximately 20% of the time to buoy deployment sites and to our hardware engineering team in Falmouth, MA for collaboration and technical coordination
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (EE) or Mechanical Engineering (ME)
Proven experience managing large-scale engineering products, with demonstrated ability to oversee complex technical systems from deployment through lifecycle management
Demonstrated experience organizing and leading complex field operations in challenging environments
Strong ability to work effectively with dispersed, cross-functional teams across multiple time zones and locations
Strong technical communication skills with the ability to effectively interface with both technical engineering teams and non-technical stakeholders
Experience building and maintaining professional relationships with external partners and community stakeholders
Exceptional organizational capabilities with proficiency in project tracking tools, particularly: Microsoft Project and Microsoft Office Suite of collaboration tools
Hands-on experience with hardware systems, preferably in marine, environmental, or field deployment contexts
Problem-solving mindset with ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues in field conditions
Willingness to learn new technologies and adapt to evolving project requirements - this is essential for success in this role
Ability to physically participate in at-sea deployment, test, and recovery operations including ability to lift, carry, and maneuver on a small boat at sea, communicate verbally, and carry out fine manipulations
Willingness to travel up to 20% of the time to support operations and team collaboration
U.S. Citizenship required - Must be willing to receive a Secret or Top Secret/SCI security clearance. This will be at no expense to you. Failure to obtain or maintain a clearance will be grounds for termination
Preferred Qualifications
Familiarity with software development processes, including: CI/CD pipelines and deployment practices and version control systems, particularly GitHub
Familiarity with cloud technologies (AWS, Azure, GCP)
Experience with marine or environmental monitoring systems
Knowledge of data acquisition and telemetry systems
Project Management Professional (PMP) or similar certification
Experience managing teams in remote or distributed locations
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