WL- Director of Engineering

Ward Leonard, a Fairbanks Morse Defense Company, is an industry-leading provider of electric motor, generator, control, and service solutions critical to Naval applications for more than 120 years. Located in Thomaston, Connecticut, Ward Leonard has worked hard to build a reputation as being a trusted name in powering the defense industry. This trust within the market is not possible without the continued hard work, commitment, and dedication of our team who respect the importance of what we do and the impact it has on the servicemen and women.

Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense, it's the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential. Discover what it's like to be a part of the Fairbanks Morse Defense team here: ;br>
Summary

Ward Leonard, a proud Fairbanks Morse Defense company, is seeking a Director of Engineering to lead mission-critical innovation supporting U.S. Navy applications. This is an opportunity to own and elevate the performance of engineering and quality functions by driving advanced motor and control systems in a highly regulated environment.

You will set the direction, establish the metrics, and drive accountability across engineering-ensuring consistent delivery of reliable, compliant, and high-performance products. Working across cross-functional teams, you will align execution with business priorities, remove bottlenecks, and push the organization toward higher levels of performance.

We are looking for a leader who brings a strong point of view, thrives in complexity, and knows how to turn strategy into measurable results. Exceptional organizational discipline, clear and effective communication, and the ability to challenge conventional thinking are essential.

Ward Leonard offers meaningful, mission-driven work supporting national defense, a strong commitment to veterans, a competitive benefits package including a robust 401(k), and a bonus-eligible structure.

Position Overview:

The Director of Engineering leads engineering and quality to deliver compliant, high-performance motor and control systems for U.S. Navy applications. This role drives cross-functional alignment, enforces rigorous standards, and advances innovation through a metrics-driven, performance-focused approach.

In this function you will:

• Provide strategic and operational leadership to the engineering and quality teams to ensure alignment with business objectives and customer requirements.
• Mentor and develop team leaders and individual contributors, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and professional growth.
• Drive the design, development, and testing of motors and controls to ensure product performance, reliability, and compliance with U.S. Navy standards.
• Ensure all engineering and quality activities comply with U.S. Navy regulations, MIL-SPEC standards, NEMA and UL standards, as well as other defense and industry requirements.
• Oversee rigorous quality assurance and testing protocols for motors and controls to meet critical performance and reliability standards.
• Act as the primary technical and quality liaison to customers and external partners, providing expertise on engineering and quality matters.
• Lead initiatives for new product development and continuous improvement to meet technical requirements and business objectives.
• Oversee resource planning, training, and performance management for the engineering and quality teams.
• Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, and deliverables for engineering and quality initiatives, ensuring timely completion.
• Drive root-cause analysis and corrective action initiatives to address technical and quality challenges.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Manufacturing, Operations, Quality, and Sales, to ensure seamless integration of engineering and quality efforts into production and delivery.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of defense-related standards, certifications, and compliance frameworks such as ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) and DFARS (Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement).
• Support business development efforts by contributing to technical proposals, specifications, and customer presentations.
• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as required.

Basic (Required) Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering (Master's degree preferred).
• Minimum of 10 years of engineering experience in manufacturing, preferably in defense or aerospace industries.
• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience managing engineering and/or quality teams.
• Strong knowledge of electrical and electromechanical power systems, motors, and controls, including design, testing, and manufacturing.
• Familiarity with MIL-SPEC standards, ITAR compliance, and other defense industry regulations.
• Proficiency in engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks) and project management tools.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for technical reporting, presentations, and data analysis.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build long-lasting relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working on products for U.S. Navy applications or similar defense programs.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Visual Manufacturing).
• Current Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other process improvement certifications.
• Active security clearance or eligibility to obtain one.

Position Criteria:

• Proven ability to lead and align teams to achieve common goals.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently in a team environment.
• Familiarity with government contract regulations and compliance requirements.
• Ability to perform basic physical activities, including sitting, standing, and walking within an office or manufacturing facility.

Fairbanks Morse Defense offers a competitive benefits package including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, and 401k retirement plan with employer match. In addition, we offer paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled