Director - Mission Operations

Kurz zusammengefasst

SE3 Labs is looking for a Director of Mission Operations to lead the transition of its autonomous‑systems and Spatial AI technology from testing to real‑world military use. SE3 builds software that gives unmanned platforms 3‑D perception, state estimation and AI‑driven decision‑making, especially for defence applications. The company is expanding to more than 100 staff and wants a senior leader who can shape the new Mission Operations function as the business grows. In this role you will own the operational link between SE3's technology and the end‑users in the field. Your daily work will involve designing and running realistic exercise programmes, from small component trials to large‑scale multi‑system drills, and capturing performance data. You will act as the primary point of contact for military customers, translating their needs into clear requirements for engineering, product and commercial teams. You will also assess how well the systems fit existing platforms, feed operational insights into the product roadmap, and help turn engagement into funded programmes. The position requires a strong background in military operations or capability development, preferably as a current or former officer or in a defence‑supplier role. You must have deep technical knowledge of software‑defined defence, autonomy or related fields and be able to engage credibly with both engineers and operators. The role demands native‑level German and full professional fluency in English, both written and spoken, and the ability to travel frequently across Europe and other strategic markets. Candidates must be eligible for the security clearance required for SE3's defence work. Additional assets include experience planning or executing military exercises involving unmanned systems, familiarity with defence procurement processes, an established network within European armed forces or procurement agencies, and exposure to NATO or other multinational exercise settings. The company offers a modern, flat‑hierarchy environment with AI‑enhanced tools, an employee participation programme, 31 paid days off, wellness memberships, bi‑annual retreats, and mentorship from senior engineers. What the role asks for: - Significant experience in military operations or capability development - Strong technical understanding of software‑defined defence or autonomy - Native‑level German language proficiency - Full professional fluency in English (written and spoken) - Eligibility for required security clearance - Experience planning or running military exercises (nice‑to‑have) - Familiarity with defence procurement and programme conversion (nice‑to‑have) - Established network across European armed forces or procurement agencies (nice‑to‑have) - Experience in NATO or multinational exercise environments (nice‑to‑have)