Investment Associate / Fellow - Hard Tech & Deep Tech

About the Role

We are a venture capital firm at the forefront of investing in pioneering hard tech and deep tech startups, focusing on sectors such as drones, defense, robotics, autonomous systems, and revitalizing American industrial sectors. We seek a full-time Investment Associate / Fellow located in Los Angeles for a dedicated two-year tenure. This position demands a strong technical foundation and enthusiasm for breakthroughs in physical technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead detailed technical evaluations for investment opportunities across domains like drones, defense, robotics, propulsion, manufacturing, and industrial automation.
• Proactively source and connect with promising startup founders ahead of mainstream recognition.
• Engage daily with founders to build deep conviction about early-stage ventures and aid investment decision processes.
• Develop and sustain an extensive network within the hard tech and defense-related startup communities.
• Translate complex technical and market data into concise investment memos and recommendations.
• Act as a representative of the firm at industry events, conferences, and within technical groups.

Candidate Profile and Requirements

• Robust technical expertise in engineering, physics, aerospace, robotics, or similar hard science/engineering fields.
• Passionate curiosity for hard tech areas such as defense, drones, robotics, space tech, advanced manufacturing, and industrial technologies.
• Capability to critically assess intricate technical assertions through solid engineering or scientific due diligence methodologies.
• Strong communication skills, able to convert detailed technical knowledge into persuasive investment narratives.
• Self-driven with high personal initiative and comfort working independently with minimal guidance.

Highly desirable experience or knowledge in the following sectors:

• Commercial space launch, satellite operations, or orbital logistics.
• Defense technology, autonomous systems, and directed energy technologies.
• Advanced manufacturing techniques, precision machining, or industrial robotics.
• Electric vehicles, alternative propulsion technologies, or energy systems.
• AI-based field autonomy or critical mission software solutions.

Applicants with 2 to 5 years' experience working within hard tech startups or established aerospace and defense firms are strongly encouraged to apply.

Compensation & Terms

• Annual salary range of $120,000 to $180,000 USD.
• This is a full-time position with a fixed term of two years.
• Visa sponsorships are not provided for this role.

Location

This position requires on-site presence in Los Angeles, California. Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to the Los Angeles area.