VP of Engineering

Defcon AI is looking for a VP of Engineering to lead and scale a high-performing team building cutting-edge AI enabled technology. The role requires a strong technical background, experience leading engineering teams, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-moving environment. The company offers a fully remote environment, competitive salary and equity package, and a range of benefits including unlimited PTO and 14 weeks of fully-paid parental leave.

Requirements

• Proven experience leading and scaling high performing engineering teams in a high-growth or startup environment
• Strong technical background across modern web architectures, APIs, distributed systems, and cloud platforms
• Experience bringing complex AI, optimization, or data-intensive systems into production environments
• Track record of setting technical direction while also getting things shipped
• Demonstrated ability to operate effectively in ambiguous problem spaces and translate abstract business or mission goals into concrete technical strategies and execution plans
• Clear, compelling communication skills—able to translate complex technical concepts for both technical and non-technical audiences
• Comfort operating in a fast-moving, evolving environment with real ownership and influence
• Experience operating in DoD, IC, federal or similarly regulated environments
• Working knowledge of CUI handling, NIST SP 800-171, CMMC, DFARS252.204.7012
• Experience with secure SDLC/DevSecOps, vulnerability management, logging, hardening, and auditability

Benefits

• Competitive salary, bonus, and equity package
• 100% employer paid, comprehensive health insurance including medical, dental, and vision for you and your family
• Unlimited PTO, with your manager’s approval
• Flexible work environment where you manage your work day
• 14 weeks of fully-paid parental leave