Technical Lead - Tactical Robots

About Forterra

Forterra is a leading provider of autonomous systems for ground-based movement in the working world. Amongst some of the earliest innovators in the field of driverless technology, Forterra is focused on building systems that protect front-line soldiers and enable civilian workers in our industrial base. Forterra is the go-to provider of ground autonomy solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense, which harnesses the technology for asymmetric warfare in critical conditions.

About the role

The Platform Verticals at Forterra develop mission specific, autonomous ground vehicle platforms spanning both the commercial yard truck space and military vehicle applications. Our systems must be field-ready, reliable, and compliant with safety, cybersecurity, and mission assurance standards. We work closely with government and commercial stakeholders to deliver high-performance ground autonomy solutions for complex, real-world environments.

We are seeking a Technical Lead to direct technical execution for complex defense autonomy programs within a Platform Vertical. This role carries full accountability for technical outcomes from concept through integration and delivery. The Technical Lead will interface directly with government customers, manage internal engineering execution, collaborate with all internal partners (Operations, Hardware, Core Software, etc.), and ensure delivery of a fully integrated, mission-capable system. This position is not a coordination role - it requires deep technical judgment, direct problem-solving, hands-on leadership of multidisciplinary teams, and decision-making under pressure.

What you'll do

• Program Technical Leadership

Coordinate the software development lifecycle for integrated vehicle systems, ensuring robust, reliable autonomy and seamless subsystem interaction

Lead development and decomposition of system requirements and interface definitions for the program (Accountable but will have support from the broader org and dedicated resources within the division)

Operate with full accountability, even in the absence of direct authority or guidance

Drive creation and management of all required engineering artifacts : systems requirements, interface control documents, cyber compliance packages, safety analyses, etc.

Travel : Moderate (up to 30%). Expect time in office, though flexible based on customer engagement, test campaigns, and platform bring-up travel

Qualifications

Advanced degree (M.S., Ph.D.) in engineering preferred

US Salary Range

$150,000-$220,000 / annually

The salary range for this role is an estimate and is based on a wide variety of compensation factors. The salary offered to candidates will vary based on a variety of factors including (but not limited to) relevant work experience, education, specialized training, critical expertise, training, and more. Equity in Forterra is included in most of our full-time, high-demand roles and is therefore considered part of Forterra's overall compensation package. In addition to base salary and equity, Forterra offers competitive benefits for full-time employees including :

Your recruiter will be able to share more information about our salary and benefits offering during the hiring process.

Forterra is an equal-opportunity employer, providing and promoting equal employment opportunity in accordance with local, state, and federal laws. Forterrans are unique, talented individuals who are united through a shared passion to deliver autonomous systems that enable national resilience and a robust supply chain. All qualified applications will receive equal consideration for employment.

The pay range for this role is :

150,000 - 220,000 USD per year (ARC)