Chief Engineer

Palmer Group's client is searching for a Chief Engineer to join their client's team to manage engineering projects, drive customer satisfaction, maximize profitability, and foster employee engagement. Our client is committed to shaping the future of defense solutions using advanced technologies and specialized tools. This role will report to the Defense Technical Director and offer a variety of growth opportunities. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical knowledge and skills, as well as collaboration, flexibility, and self-motivation. Apply now to be considered!

Work Model:

• On-Site

What You Will Do:

• Support the generation of customer leads, evaluation of opportunities, scope meetings, proposal efforts, and market intelligence
• Manage engineering project execution, ensuring timely, quality results
• Lead and coach engineering teams, promoting growth and advancement
• Plan engineering programs and ensure product designs meet standards and requirements
• Authorize design modifications, specifications, and drawings
• Oversee technical development, timelines, and design/testing issues
• Lead development of hybrid and electric vehicle architectures and system partitioning
• Create SWOT analyses and propose solutions aligned with customer needs
• Implement engineering best practices throughout the organization
• Present technical solutions to stakeholders and customers
• Align project solutions with organizational goals and emerging technologies
• Drive technical direction, resolve conflicts, and make appropriate decisions using trade studies
• Manage resource planning, program execution, and recruiting
• Identify potential technical risks impacting delivery and customer satisfaction
• Maintain project progress by driving internal and external communication
• Manage project financials to guarantee profitability
• Foster customer relationships and ensure timely deliverables
• Provide customer insights and support continuous improvement initiatives

What You Will Need to Be Successful:

• Bachelor's or master's degree in electrical, mechanical, aerospace, or an equivalent engineering field
• 15+ years of Defense industry work experience
• Capability to obtain a Security Clearance
• Ability to travel as required, based on the program
• Availability to work extended hours if needed to meet deadlines
• Previous experience in full vehicle development and design, including propulsion, energy systems, and chassis systems
• Knowledge of vehicle system evaluation, testing, and verification, including both integrated and developmental verification strategies
• Comprehensive knowledge of systems safety, safety-critical software, and system engineering
• Comfortable with using CAE tools and optimization for the lean product development process
• Ability to repair and maintain systems in the field (preferred)
• Understanding of architecture management, functional safety systems, and associated software
• Knowledge of industry standards
• Experience with mentorship of a team
• Extensive knowledge of vehicle architecture and subsystem integration
• Experience in Defense AI and Software, Fire Control Systems, Weapon Systems, Turrets and Ammo Handling Systems, Combat Vehicle Engineering, or Virtual Environments and Battlefield Systems
• Microsoft Office Suite proficiency
• Strong communication skills with the ability to express a strategic vision and translate it into clear, actionable plans

Benefits Overview:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401k

Interested and qualified candidates can contact Jordan Dougherty at (515) 225-7000 or email jdougherty@thepalmergroup.com.