Chief Engineer

Role overview Lead the technical delivery of solid rocket propulsion programs from early design through qualification, with accountability for mission success across engineering, cost, and schedule. The role directs multidisciplinary teams, guides systems engineering decisions, and represents the program in technical discussions with stakeholders.

Responsibilities - Lead cross-functional teams through design reviews, qualification milestones, and the full technical lifecycle. - Ensure system designs meet producibility and technical data requirements while balancing cost and schedule. - Track critical-path work, resolve resource conflicts, and adjust execution plans to keep program milestones on course. - Maintain disciplined technical scope and cost baselines; monitor cost performance and address variances. - Present program information to internal and external stakeholders, support business development, and keep customer requests within authorized scope.

Requirements - Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or another relevant engineering discipline. - At least 15 years of engineering experience, including 5 or more years of technical leadership in solid rocket motors. - Experience directing complex programs through design reviews and qualification while managing technical, cost, and schedule constraints. - Demonstrated ability to manage program milestones, resources, scope, and cost performance. - Experience serving as a program’s primary technical spokesperson and managing stakeholder relationships. - U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain the required U.S. security clearance; must also meet applicable export-control requirements.

Nice to have - Four or more years leading solid rocket propulsion projects with multidisciplinary teams of at least 10 people. - Current U.S. Department of Defense Secret clearance.

Benefits and work setup - Location options include California, Nevada, Alabama, or remote; travel may reach 25%, including overnight trips to sites or test facilities. - Must be able to lift, move, or carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. - Compensation is incentive-plan eligible. The stated base salary range varies by location, with California listed at $195,000–$250,000 and Nevada at $190,000–$245,000. - Benefits include flexible time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) match of up to 4%, wellness programs, and voluntary benefits.