Lead Engineer - Digital Integrated Systems

Join North Wind – Accelerating Hypersonic Innovation

At North Wind, we are advancing hypersonic technologies through cutting-edge research, system development, and flight testing. Our team drives innovation in high-speed aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and mission-critical components, supporting every phase of hypersonic programs—from R&D to flight testing. If you are passionate about pushing technological boundaries in a dynamic environment, we invite you to join us.

Lead Engineer – Digital Integrated Systems

The Lead Engineer – Digital Integrated Systems is a key technical leadership position that reports to the Office of the Chief Engineer and drives the technical execution of the company's digital engineering (DE) vision for current and future projects. Experienced in architecting, designing, and integrating digital engineering hardware and software platforms for multi-domain, complex systems. A practitioner of digital engineering tools and model-based approaches who will help guide the company's digital transformation. Skilled communicator who can operate as an individual contributor and a leader while distilling the value proposition of digital engineering and building company-wide interest in adoption of new digitally integrated approaches and processes.

Responsibilities:

Digital Engineering Platform Development: Leads the architecture development, design, build, integration, and deployment of a digital engineering hardware and software platform for a new wind tunnel facility complex. Develops digital engineering technology solutions that evolve with the project, are scalable to new applications, and are aligned with government architectures and frameworks. Engages the team to develop the critical DE data flows and workflows that streamline test conduct and improve test utility for aerospace system developers. Leads the development and implementation of DE platform tools, including digital twins, use of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) for improved design processes and test techniques, and integration of modeling and simulation (M&S) workflows for multi-domain design, analysis, and optimization.

Digital Transformation: Guides the company's digital modernization, including helping engineering leadership select and integrate new DE software tools and processes. Engages engineering workforce to support selection and adoption of new DE-related tools and workflows. Creates and leads training sessions with engineering staff to support DE upskilling.

Team Management & Collaboration: Creates and leads highly functioning teams to develop digital engineering solutions and products. Effectively communicates the value proposition of digital engineering to grow team-wide understanding and interest. Fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages innovation, accountability, and professional growth.

Technical Expertise: Experience in architecting, designing and integrating a digital engineering hardware and software platform for a multi-domain, physical system / product. Practitioner of product lifecycle management tools, model-based systems engineering, and creating digital threads between software tools to integrate complex workflows and system development.

Cross-functional Support: Partners with Division and Functional leadership to ensure alignment and seamless integration of digital initiatives.

Performance Monitoring & Optimization: Tracks and analyzes digital performance metrics, providing insights and recommendations for improvement.

Preferred Education / Experience:

• Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline
• Minimum 10 years of experience in engineering projects pertinent to the responsibilities listed above
• A combination of education and experience equivalent to above

Preferred Knowledge / Ability:

• Strong knowledge of digital engineering tools and technologies, including model-based systems engineering (MBSE), product lifecycle management (PLM) tools, digital twins, digital threads, and cloud-based platforms
• Demonstrated success driving the technical execution of digital engineering platforms and initiatives
• Deep understanding of engineering principles, including mechanical, electromechanical, and aeronautical systems design, test, and evaluation
• Proficiency in interpreting engineering plans, technical drawings, and specifications
• Ability to define complex problems, analyze data, interpret abstract concepts, and develop effective solutions
• Skilled in project management, prioritization, budgeting, and delivering results on time
• Familiarity with Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition processes, R&D funding, and technology development programs
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging to technical and non-technical audiences
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and engineering-related software tools
• Active U.S. security clearance strongly preferred; candidates must be U.S. citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain a clearance

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with aerospace test systems and / or vehicle development programs
• Background in early-stage research and development, product development methodologies, and innovation strategy