Director of Research & Development

We are seeking an experienced and driven Director of R&D to lead the research anddevelopment efforts of our firearms product portfolio. This leadership role will be responsible forbuilding and guiding a high-performing R&D team based in Fort Smith, AR, with fullaccountability for the design, testing, and launch of innovative firearm systems.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in product design and development,project management, and proven leadership abilities, with a demonstrated history of takingproducts from concept through to production. This position is critical to driving our strategicgrowth through technological innovation and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop the Fort Smith-based R&D team, including recruiting and developingtop engineering talent and fostering a collaborative, innovative culture.


• Oversee the design, development, and testing of new firearms and related technologies,ensuring products meet safety, performance, and regulatory requirements.


• Provide technical leadership and vision to guide the development of next-generationfirearms platforms.


• Manage multiple concurrent R&D projects using proven project managementmethodologies to meet schedule, cost, and performance targets.


• Collaborate with Product Management, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to ensure smooth product launches.


• Establish and maintain test protocols and performance validation standards for newdesigns.


• Maintain awareness of industry trends, competitive products, and emergingtechnologies.


• Drive a continuous improvement mindset within the R&D team, focusing on innovation,efficiency, and product excellence.


• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and international regulationsrelated to firearms development and testing.


• Lead the development and maintenance of drawing control processes.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Advanced technical degreeor MBA is a plus.


• 10+ years of progressive experience in product design and development.


• Proven track record of successfully leading design and R&D teams, with strong people management and leadership skills.


• Ability to develop a deep understanding of firearms systems, ballistics, materials, manufacturing processes, and regulatory standards (e.g., ATF, ITAR).


• Strong experience in project management tools and techniques; PMP certification andSolidWorks PDM experience is a plus.


• Demonstrated ability to bring new products to market from concept through full-scale production.


• Exceptional communication, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills.


• Experience in 3-D CAD design, focusing on SolidWorks, and other engineering analysissoftware.


• Experience in ANSI-Y-14.5 drawing terms and tolerances.


• Experience in DFM in a Lean environment.

Additional Qualifications:

• A solid leadership style based on the development and support of those you lead.


• A passion for metric driven results.


• A team focused approach to design and development which leverages feedback andinput across the organization.


• Excellent interpersonal skills providing clear communication at all levels.


• Exceptional product life cycle management skills.


• Proven success of project management through documentation and KPIs.


• An ability to prioritize and pivot based on internal and external customer demands.


• Strong ethics, integrity and leadership qualities that inspire trust and confidence from alllevels.


• An established history of mentoring, motivating and developing individuals.


• A Cultural fit built around engagement, empowerment and servant leadership.