About Us
HavocAI is an innovative defense technology company making scalable maritime autonomy a reality. We are pioneering an end-to-end solution for planning, tasking, and control of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs). As we continue to quickly grow, we are looking for motivated individuals who are inspired to work within an energetic, creative, and innovative team that is passionate about maritime robotics and exploring the open ocean. We work in a highly dynamic environment where collaboration and idea sharing are a way of life.

About the Role
HavocAI is seeking a skilled Cybersecurity Engineer to lead the security design and implementation for our cutting-edge autonomous USV platforms. Our vessels operate in mission-critical environments, supporting defense, marine research, and environmental monitoring applications.This role is essential in securing the onboard software and hardware stack, embedded systems, communication protocols, and autonomy systems running on our vessels. You will collaborate closely with autonomy engineers, platform engineers, and systems integrators to implement robust and resilient security practices.This is a unique opportunity to secure state-of-the-art autonomous vessels and shape the future of defense and maritime cybersecurity. If you are passionate about embedded and operational security and want to make an impact on the next generation of maritime robotics, we’d love to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities

Design and implement security best practices across the USV platform, including onboard software, hardware interfaces, autonomy systems, and mission control links.
Develop threat models and perform security risk assessments for embedded and networked systems on the vessels.
Secure communication protocols between the USVs, mission control systems, and other operational assets.
Collaborate with engineering teams to build secure-by-design autonomous behaviors and system integrations.
Implement hardware-based security controls (e.g., TPMs, secure boot, cryptographic modules).
Lead vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and red teaming efforts focused on the operational USV environment.
Develop and maintain system hardening procedures, intrusion detection capabilities, and incident response playbooks.
Contribute to secure fielding procedures, including secure provisioning, updates, and mission data handling.
Ensure compliance with defense and maritime cybersecurity standards and frameworks (e.g., NIST RMF, DoD CMMC).

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
5+ years of experience in cybersecurity roles, with a focus on embedded systems, robotics, or operational platforms.
Strong understanding of Linux security, real-time operating systems, and system-level security controls.
Strong proficiency with containerized environments (e.g., Docker) and demonstrated experience in securing container-based deployments.
Experience with embedded system architectures, secure communication protocols, and hardware interfaces.
Familiarity with cybersecurity in tactical or disconnected environments.
Hands-on experience with secure software development practices and threat modeling.
Understanding of PKI, cryptographic primitives, and key management for edge devices.
Experience supporting systems operating in compliance-heavy domains (DoD, CUI, classified systems).
Relevant certifications are a plus (e.g., CISSP, OSCP, CEH, GPEN).
Must be a US Citizen

Preferred Skills

Experience securing autonomous systems, robotics, or maritime platforms.
Background in defense systems integration, EW/cyber ranges, or tactical networking.
Familiarity with mesh networks, SATCOM security, or maritime-specific threat vectors.

Location:

Must be based in the Greater Boston area, with the ability to work onsite as needed.

Compensation and Benefits:

The target salary range for this position is $140,000 - 180,000
100% Employer paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your families
Ability to participate in the companies 401k program
Unlimited PTO policy with an enforced 2 week minimum
16 week 100% Paid Parental Leave
Generous Equity Package
Generous work / home office Stipend
Global Entry Re-Imbursement

Our Values:

Innovation: We are driven to break new ground. Every day presents an opportunity to challenge the status quo, think boldly, and deliver advanced solutions that transform the future of defense technology.
Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency, accountability, and trust in all our actions and partnerships.
Mission-Driven: We are focused on achieving impactful outcomes that align with our core mission—protecting lives through innovation.
Forward-Leaning: We continuously seek out new opportunities and remain at the forefront of technological advancements. We embrace change and anticipate the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and creativity.
Ownership of All Tasks: At HavocAI, no problem is too complex or too trivial. We believe that greatness comes from tackling the hardest challenges, but also in handling the smallest, sometimes thankless, tasks with the same level of commitment and care.
Servant Leadership: We lead by serving others, whether it’s supporting our employees, partners, or the broader community. Empowering those around us is key to achieving long-term success and making a lasting impact.

HavocAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.