Director of Engineering

ABOUT OUR MISSION:

Join the forefront of innovation and make an impact at Safran Defense & Space, Inc. (DSI)!  We deliver a wide range of solutions to meet the evolving challenges of national defense and complex space missions. Headquartered in Arlington, VA, Safran DSI operates through the specialized business units Optronics, Space Systems, Testing & Telemetry, and Assured PNT. With more than 500 talented professionals nationwide, DSI is a preferred partner for the armed forces federal, state, and local government, and commercial entities within the US defense and space sectors.

Safran DSI Testing & Telemetry offers state-of-the-art data acquisition systems, recorders, download stations, RF receivers and transmitters, and telemetry tracking antennas, ensuring reliable mission data management. Additionally, our airborne mission data management systems provide comprehensive solutions for collecting and analyzing mission-critical information.

If you’re ready to join our mission and serve those who serve, Safran DSI is the perfect place for you to take your career to the next level. Make a real difference and be part of something extraordinary. Apply now and help us build the future of defense and space. 

POSITION PROFILE:

As the Director of Engineering, you will be at the forefront of advancing our technology, supporting mission-critical applications, and leading a team of talented engineers in a growing organization. Join us to make an impact in aerospace, defense, and high-tech sectors, where innovation and excellence are at the core of what we do.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Technical Excellence:

• Drive innovation and continuous improvement in engineering practices, product design, configuration management, and development processes.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and internal quality protocols.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, technologies, and regulatory changes.

Project Management:

• Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects, ensuring they meet quality, budget, and timeline requirements.
• Coordinate with other departments such as sales, operations, and customer support to deliver optimal solutions.
• Develop and manage network of 3rd party resources to augment design and development team.
• Manage project risks and ensure contingency plans are in place.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Act as a key interface with clients and stakeholders to understand requirements, communicate progress, and ensure satisfaction.
• Collaborate with international teams across Safran Data Systems to align on global engineering initiatives and standards.
• Report to executive leadership on engineering metrics, project status, and departmental performance.

Budgeting and Resource Management:

• Develop and manage the engineering department budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
• Identify and address talent needs, including hiring, training, and performance evaluations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of engineers, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Develop and implement strategic engineering goals and objectives aligned with the Testing & Telemetry business strategy.
• Establish engineering policies, practices, and performance standards.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL:

• U.S. Citizenship
• Secret Clearance or ability to obtain upon hire
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, preferably in Mechanical, Systems, or Aerospace Engineering. Master’s degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in engineering, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within the aerospace, defense, or high-tech industries.
• Proven experience managing complex engineering projects and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Strong knowledge of engineering principles, product development life cycle, and regulatory standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional and global environment.
• Experience with project management tools and methodologies (PMP certification is a plus).
• Demonstrated leadership skills while having the ability to be a team player.

IDEALLY, YOU’LL ALSO HAVE:

• Familiarity with working in an ITAR environment.
• Familiarity with telemetry, ground station technology, and data processing solutions.
• Knowledge of regulatory standards such as MIL-STD, ITAR compliance, and FAA/EASA regulations.
• Experience in lean engineering and Six Sigma methodologies is a plus.

TRAVEL: Up to 25%

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

EOE/AA/M/F/Vets – US Protected Individual status required (US citizen, lawful permanent resident, asylee, refugee or temporary resident (as defined at 8 USC 1160(a).