Important Note for Applicants: This is a senior executive technical leadership role requiring a high degree of specialized expertise. We are seeking an accomplished Chief Engineer with a proven track record of managing 40+ person cross-functional teams and navigating complex DoD program lifecycles. Candidates must possess an active Secret Clearance and demonstrate mastery in maritime imaging, undersea systems, and Earned Value Management (EVM) to be considered for this critical position.
Clearance: Must possess an active DoD Secret Security Clearance (requires ship).
Schedule: 9/80 Work Pattern (Every other Friday off)
Benefits - Full
Relocation Assistance Available - Yes
Position Overview
We are seeking a high-caliber technical executive to serve as the Chief Engineer for our client''s Maritime Imaging Systems (MIS) Business Unit. In this pivotal leadership role, you will be the primary technical authority overseeing a sophisticated portfolio of submarine, surface ship, and unmanned undersea vehicle (UxV) imaging technologies.
As a strategic partner to the General Manager, you will bridge the gap between complex engineering execution and business profitability. You will lead a multi-disciplinary organization of approximately 100 professionals, ensuring that mission-critical maritime systems move seamlessly from initial concept and IRAD through to production and global deployment.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership: Define and implement engineering policies and long-term technical roadmaps aligned with division-wide profitability and innovation goals.
Team Development: Directly supervise a cadre of 3–6 Program Chief Engineers, providing mentorship and performance oversight across the entire portfolio.
Portfolio Execution: Maintain full accountability for the technical integrity, budgetary health, and scheduling of all programs, including customer-funded projects and internal R&D.
Operational Excellence: Utilize Earned Value Management (EVM) and robust engineering metrics to monitor performance, directing Root Cause and Corrective Action (RCCA) initiatives when necessary.
Resource Management: Partner with matrixed functional leaders to ensure optimal staffing levels and talent allocation to meet rigorous program timelines.
Executive Representation: Act as the face of engineering for high-stakes briefings with Department of Defense (DoD) stakeholders and international customers.
New Business Growth: Lead technical proposal volumes and "Design to Cost" strategies to secure future undersea imaging contracts.
Candidate Qualifications
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Minimum RequirementsEducation & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering with 12+ years of relevant experience; OR Master’s degree (Engineering or MBA) with 10+ years of leadership experience.
Leadership Track Record: Proven history of leading large-scale cross-functional teams (40+ members) through the entire product lifecycle.
Clearance: Must possess an active DoD Secret Security Clearance (requires ship).
Technical Proficiency: Deep understanding of Systems Engineering processes, Control Account Management (CAM), and Integrated Product Team (IPT) environments.
Lifecycle Expertise: Experience transitioning complex hardware/software systems from qualification into low-rate initial production (LRIP).
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Preferred SkillsSpecialized knowledge in Undersea/Subsea sensors or Optical/Imaging systems.
Experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and Design for Manufacturability (DfM).
Proven success managing Fixed Price development programs and international defense contracts.
Experience driving organizational change and implementing rigorous process discipline.
Compensation & Culture
Salary Range: (Final offer based on experience and geography).
Comprehensive Benefits: Includes 401(k) matching, medical/disability insurance, parental leave, and tuition assistance.
Stability: Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates.
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