Project Engineer

Job Description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on uncrewed systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Technical Directions Inc. (TDI), a Business Unit within the Kratos Unmanned Systems Division, specializes in small, low-cost turbojet engine systems. TDI has assembled a team of subject matter experts in various disciplines capable of addressing all aspects related to small turbine engines. This strategy allows TDI to have the engineering depth typical of a much larger entity, while retaining the low-cost attributes and agile response found only in a small company. TDI's experience encompasses all aspects of turbine engines, from clean-sheet design, through performance testing, vehicle integration, flight testing, and production manufacturing. The TDI team is growing rapidly as demand for small engines continues to increase.

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

Working with the design authority for assigned project(s), the Engineer supports the development and maintenance of the technical plan from project kick-off through closure of contract. Assignments will require experience with Engineering analysis, ability to execute analysis tasks, propose design solutions, and present results to management and facilitate coordination of cross-functional engineering teams for internal engineering activities at TDI.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Performs technical execution as defined by design authority and communicates problem resolution from design authority across the engineering team.
• Monitors and reports technical status, task accomplishments and design authority direction.
• Working closely with the project leads, monitors, and coordinates status reporting of project activities against the project plan: technical scope, cost, and schedule
• Keeps the lead engineer informed of task accomplishments, issues, solutions, and status.
• Escalates issues which cannot be resolved at the IPT level or working level and works with the program leadership to determine and implement a resolution.
• Provides guidance to the engineering team based on management direction.
• Manages effort and time within the budget and schedule provided for the task.
• Understands customer requirements and prepares designs in accordance with customer and derived requirements.
• Prepares and publishes for presentation material and formal reports to document analysis results.
• Supports formal, controlled engineering documentation (i.e. drawings, specifications, parts lists, interface control documents, test procedures, etc.).
• Create and interpret 3D CAD models and detailed drawings for project specific efforts
• Prepares and presents design review material in support of technical interchange meetings with suppliers and external/internal customers.
• Acts as the Lead Engineer for very complex projects as assigned by Manager that affect multiple systems, involve several suppliers/teaming partners, and require frequent customer interface.
• Communicates with other engineering design and development disciplines, ensuring that requirements are addressed and satisfied during overall system integration.
• Supports engine testing, trouble shooting, and problem resolution.
• Supports testing data reduction, analysis, and reporting.
• Follows safety precautions.
• Complies with established Quality Management System (QMS) procedures.
• May have contact with Customers and Subcontractors / Suppliers as required and in coordination with Supply Chain Management
• Other duties may be assigned.
• Interfaces with peer Engineers, design authorities, project IPTLs, as well as functional management and engineering teams / personnel
• Implements execution of company engineering processes. Complies with released processes and provides feedback on engineering process improvements.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

• No direct reports
• Achieves results through lead engineer (Chief and/or Sr. Project Engineer) guidance and direction.

Experience and Skills

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Required:

• Basic understanding and experience with engineering fundamentals and best practices
• Skills in CAD Modeling Software (Solidworks preferred)
• Basic presentation preparation and delivery skills with audiences such as subcontractors, customers, and government
• Good communication and relationship skills with program leadership, engineering leadership, customers, and engineering team members
• Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards.
• Ability to interact effectively with peers and supervisors.
• Ability to interact appropriately with the public when necessary.
• Ability to adhere to workplace rules.
• Flexibility to handle changing requirements and prioritize in a dynamic environment.

Preferred:

• Knowledge of military operations
• Technical knowledge of propulsion systems and related support systems
• Engineering experience in the aerospace or aviation industry
• Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally to meet department and company goals and requirements for assigned project(s)
• Knowledge of compliance elements for AS, ISO, MIL-STD, and ITAR/Export regulations
• Ability to travel and with short notice.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in an applicable engineering, technical, or science discipline.
• Minimum 5 years relevant experience with Engineering, Systems, Integration, Test, Software, and / or Engineering Project Leadership, preferably within the aerospace or aviation industries, or minimum 3 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:

• Office or manufacturing and field environment
• May work extended hours or weekends occasionally to complete tasks and meet schedule
• Ability to occasionally travel domestically/internationally
• May work in manufacturing and/or field environments with potential exposure to uncontrolled climate conditions and potential exposure to noise, dust and hazardous chemicals
• Ability to perform repetitive motion (computer work, phones)
• Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with TDI General Safety Training guidelines.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• 0-25% May be required between other Kratos locations

#LI-Onsite

Job Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement