Engineering Manager

Engineering ManagerWe are seeking an experienced Engineering Manager to build, stand up, and activate a multi-disciplinary engineering organization in support of a full-scale launch test, research, and development program. This critical leadership role is responsible for establishing the engineering team, operating cadence, and execution discipline, and for leading the team through all phases of test site development—from initial design through fabrication, installation, and activation.The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise in test systems and rapid prototyping, controls, and data acquisition; combined with proven leadership capability in building teams, establishing operational rhythms, and delivering complex, high-stakes engineering programs.Key Responsibilities: Team Leadership & ManagementStand up and activate a multi-disciplinary engineering team, including defining roles, responsibilities, operating cadence, and execution normsEstablish and lead regular office stand-ups and execution reviews to drive alignment, accountability, and rapid issue resolutionLead and mentor engineers across multiple disciplines throughout the complete lifecycle of a one-of-a-kind test siteCoordinate cross-functional collaboration between engineering, operations, and program management teamsLead structured problem-solving efforts to rapidly address emergent technical and schedule issuesFoster a collaborative and innovative environment that promotes technical excellence and continuous improvementConduct performance reviews, provide career development guidance, and grow team capability over timeTechnical Program ExecutionDirect design, fabrication, installation, and activation activities for full-scale launch test sitesLead rapid prototyping and development efforts to address emergent program needsReview and approve technical documentation, including requirements, design specifications, installation and validation procedures, and technical reportsApply appropriate technical rigor across all activities using sound engineering judgment and program guidanceTechnical LeadershipProvide expert guidance on testing methodologies, instrumentation, and data acquisition strategiesMake critical technical decisions and trade-offs to optimize test site performance, safety, and capabilityDrive innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges in launch testing environmentsServe as the primary technical interface with the Program Chief EngineerProject & Schedule ManagementDevelop and maintain detailed project schedules, identifying critical path activities and resource requirementsTrack milestones, manage dependencies, and proactively identify and mitigate technical and execution risksUse office stand-ups, reviews, and metrics to monitor progress and maintain execution disciplineCoordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment on priorities, deliverables, and schedule commitmentsAllocate resources effectively to balance multiple concurrent efforts and competing prioritiesRequired Qualifications: Education & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline10+ years of progressive engineering experience, with significant emphasis on testing, test infrastructure, or R&D environmentsMinimum of 3–5 years in an engineering leadership or management roleTechnical ExpertiseExperience in standing up or activating a new technical activityDemonstrated experience in test planning, execution, and data analysisProven track record in rapid prototyping and iterative developmentStrong background in multi-disciplinary engineering involving mechanical, electrical, controls, and/or instrumentation systemsExperience with design for manufacturability and installation planningLeadership & Management SkillsExcellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearlyProven ability to manage schedules, resources, and priorities in dynamic, fast-paced environmentsStrong technical documentation review skills and attention to detailExperience leading teams through high-pressure situations and tight timelinesDemonstrated ability to build consensus, resolve conflicts, and drive decisionsSecurity & ClearanceMust be able to obtain and maintain a secret US Government Clearance. Note: US Citizenship is required to obtain a Secret Clearance.Preferred Qualifications:Master's degree in Engineering or a related technical fieldExperience with launch systems, propulsion testing, or aerospace test operationsFamiliarity with government acquisition processes and defense contractor environmentsExperience with project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid)Knowledge of systems engineering principles and practicesPrevious experience managing capital projectsWork EnvironmentThis position is based at a research and development facility and requires regular presence at active test sites. The role includes a balance of office-based leadership and field execution activities.Travel of approximately 30% is required.Compensation Details:$170k - $225kThe compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.Benefits Overview:Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:Health, dental, and vision insurancePaid time off and holidaysRetirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)Educational reimbursementParental leaveEmployee stock purchase planTax-saving optionsDisability and life insurancePet insuranceNote: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.