Chief Engineer

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. Chief Engineer Arlington, Texas Apply Now

The Chief Engineer provides technical vision for the assigned platform/product line across all projects under the platform/product line umbrella. For the platform/product line: facilitates communication and synergy across the multiple projects through the development and maintenance of the platform/product line technical road map; technical lead for proposals efforts through ownership of technical volume and technical basis of estimates; overall accountability for technical product lifecycle direction to meet strategic business objectives.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Overarching technical lead on unmanned aircraft systems under the assigned platform/product line.
2. For project(s)/contract(s) without Lead or Sr. Project Engineer assignments under the assigned product line, performs the Lead Sr. Project Engineer roles.
3. Supports business development and program management as the lead technical contact for proposal efforts relating to the platform/product line.
4. Creates and maintains the technical road map for the platform/product line.
5. Ensures project design implementation efforts under the platform/product line umbrella are staying within the vision for the platform/product line.
6. Facilitates communication with project engineers on the technical vision.
7. Communicates vision with upper management to ensure alignment with company vision.
8. Supports program management and project engineers with development of program planning strategies, technical cost estimates, evaluations of alternatives, risk management, logistics management, cost-performance trade-offs, preparation of data, status updates and presentations at customer reviews.
9. Directs and works with project engineer(s) to develop solutions to customer requirements and facilitates resolutions where platform/product line conflicts arise.
10. For the assigned platform/product line and derivatives, is the overriding design authority for the product including all new development and product enhancements.
11. Responsible for facilitating the integration of multi-program/project requirements without compromising the integrity of the product line.
12. Assists with setting priorities across the platform/product line and ensures roles and responsibilities are clearly defined.
13. Provides support to Project Engineer(s) as necessary, to include project planning, estimating, execution of project tasks and management of the engineering team.
14. Assists functional managers with developing and implementing improved procedures and standards.
15. Provides direction and leadership on technical and technology issues.
16. Defines and manages risks of technical approaches in terms of resources/tools and personnel needs.
17. Enforces the execution of company engineering design processes.
18. Leads failure analysis and root cause investigation using corrective action tools.
19. Fosters ethical conduct and personal integrity throughout Engineering.
20. Assists project engineer(s) with customer requirements, goals, and expectations.
21. Reports progress across the platform/product line in meeting external/internal customer requirements.
22. Provides mentorship to engineer(s).
23. Assists in accomplishing human resource strategies.
24. Other duties may be assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

Achieves results through leading and mentoring Senior Project Engineers and/or Project Engineers in a matrixed environment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

1. Excellent engineering and/or project management experience.
2. Strong technical knowledge of unmanned aircraft systems and related support systems.
3. Knowledge of military operations.
4. Excellent communication and relationship skills with Senior Leadership, Program Management, Customers and engineering team members.
5. Proficiency with MS Office products, including MS Project.
6. Knowledge of compliance elements for ISO, EVMS and Export regulations.
7. Knowledge of finance, accounting and earned value management practices.
8. Strong understanding and experience with engineering fundamentals.
9. Strong presentation preparation and delivery skills.
10. Strong technical writing skills.
11. Demonstrated passion for customer satisfaction.
12. Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information.
13. Ability to interact effectively with peers and supervisors.
14. Ability to interact appropriately with the public.
15. Ability to adhere to workplace rules.
16. Ability to estimate manpower requirements.
17. Ability to travel as necessary.
18. Flexibility to handle changing requirements.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor’s degree (Master’s degree preferred) in an applicable engineering, technical, or science discipline. Minimum 12 years relevant technical experience with Engineering, Systems, Integration, Test, Software, and/or Engineering Project Leadership, preferably within the aerospace or aviation industries, or minimum 8 years with Master’s degree.

May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. Office, field and/or manufacturing environment.
2. May work extended hours or weekends.
3. Ability to travel domestically/internationally.
4. May work in manufacturing and/or field environments with potential exposure to climate conditions and hazardous chemicals.
5. Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
6. Ability to perform repetitive motion.
7. Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time.

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class.

All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation.