US Citizen and eligibility to obtain a US Security Clearance
Bachelors (Master's or PhD degree preferred) in a relevant engineering or applied-science field
>10 years professional experience including demonstrated success leading large and diverse technical teams in an engineering organization
Proven success managing R&D programs from $5M - $100M+ in the aerospace and defense sector with full accountability for cost, schedule, and technical performance
Direct experience with systems engineering, optical or laser system development, and high-reliability aerospace programs
EVM experience preferred, including integrated baseline development and monthly statusing
Strong written and verbal communication and documentation skills
Excellent customer interfacing skills
Familiarity with expectations and collaboration in the context of typical Government development contracts, including organizations such as NASA, US Government defense organizations, and/or aerospace Prime Contractor mission partners
Ability to apply experience in Aerospace and Defense to lasers and lidar systems
Lead cross-functional teams of scientists, engineers, and manufacturing personnel to achieve program success
Develop enduring customer relationships by serving as the primary customer interface, fostering collaboration and ensuring clear, transparent communication
Develop and maintain comprehensive program plans aligned with customer work statements and technical specifications
Oversee the end-to-end development lifecycle of complex active electro-optical systems, from design through delivery
Proactively identify, mitigate, and communicate technical, cost, and schedule risks; develop risk mitigation plans and execute recovery plans as needed
Forecast program resource requirements, including technical workforce, facilities, and equipment needs
Provide executive-level briefings on program health, milestones, and challenges
Generate customer proposals to support follow on efforts and to recover unplanned cost or scope increases, ensuring programs remain on track
Partner with business leaders to define growth opportunities and beneficial internal investments, contribute to proposals, and engage with key customers