Engineering Operations Lead

STR is focused on delivering National Defense capabilities by driving mission-focused strategies to develop advanced technology systems enabling enduring products and solutions focused on achieving the customer vision. Our programs deliver sustainable, reliable, and cost-efficient capabilities focused on end-customer needs that function in operationally relevant environments and timeframes. We consider the entire lifecycle of the solution, from conceptualization and architecting, through development to deployment, while leveraging novel technologies to deliver first-of-a-kind systems.

The Systems Development Division (SDD) is looking for an Engineering Operations Lead to apply your broad ranging skills and experiences to aid growth, maturation, and execution across the Division as we work through the challenges of transitioning technology research and capabilities to acquisition programs of record.  In this role, you may lead or support a wide range of activities, such as but not limited to engineering execution, process development, quality assurance, vendor management, Division business operations, and program management.  This is a dynamic role that will expect you to flex across a range of responsibilities and across the broader STR enterprise to collaborate on complex matters to reach mutually beneficial ends among diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities can include:

• Working with the Portfolio Chief Engineers to oversee /support the technical integrity and engineering excellence of projects
• Take on Engineering technical lead or program manager roles as needed
• Establishing a Quality Management System (QMS) that is appropriate for the type of programs STR supports, with a vision towards applying it at the enterprise level
• Representing the Division at Enterprise-level meetings related to Division Business operations
• Identifying and cultivating strategic relationships with external partners (e.g. contract manufactures) to augment STR capabilities

The candidate will demonstrate the ability to collaborate on complex matters to reach mutually beneficial ends among diverse stakeholders.  The successful candidate will demonstrate expertise in project/team leadership, fostering relationships, staff mentorship, peer leadership, and technical acumen.  This position requires skills in working with multi-disciplinary teams, spanning technical and/or corporate activities. Strong interpersonal, communication, and technical skills are required.  Applicants are expected to be self-motivated, detail oriented and have ability to effectively communicate. 

What you will do:

• In collaboration with Portfolio Chief Engineers, oversee /support the technical integrity and engineering excellence of projects. Provide technical contributions as needed to fill gaps. Ensure programs are in compliance with execution guidance.
• Identify and develop guidelines and processes to establish/improve engineering rigor. Support and monitor application to programs, including providing guidance and issue resolution.
• Conduct and oversee trade studies to guide decisions and optimize outcomes relevant to assigned responsibilities.
• Influence organizational strategy by working with Portfolio and Engineering leadership.
• Establish and maintain Quality Management System (QMS).  Oversee quality improvement processes to ensure a “continuous improvement” culture.
• Identify and cultivate strategic relationships with external partners (e.g. contract manufacturers) to augment STR capabilities. As needed, oversee internal and subcontracted production and test activities ensuring expectations are met.
• Act as Engineering technical lead or program manager as needed.
• Represent the SDD at Enterprise-level meetings related to Division Business operations.

Who you are:

• Demonstrated experience in technical leadership and delivery of advanced development projects.
• Effective problem-solving skills to triage issues and identify appropriate courses of action.  Understanding and experience in interacting with stakeholders to translate issues/needs into solutions.
• Willingness to assume multiple roles as needed, including overseeing technical execution, program management, staff management, and business operations.
• Capable of effectively working in a team environment, often under tight deadlines.
• Bachelor’s degree and at least 15 years of applicable experience; Master’s degree and at least 13 years of applicable experience; or PhD and at least 10 years of applicable experience in applicable engineering field and/or program management.

Nice to have:

• Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $232,000 - $320,000

The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate’s experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.