Director of Engineering

Director of Engineering Location: Hood River, OR Job Description The Director of Engineering is responsible for all technical aspects of products and leads a team of engineers to develop and sustain products throughout the product lifecycle. The Director will lead the development of new features and improvements as well as lead failure investigations. The Director works with Product Line Managers to develop product roadmaps to meet customer requirements.

Position Responsibilities Develop and lead a motivated multi-disciplined engineering organization. Drive a disciplined engineering approach to evaluating, testing, and choosing new technologies. Set standards for trade study and objective analyses enabling a review and adjudication of varying concepts.

Chair major development milestones, such as CoDR, SRR, Analysis of Alternatives (AoA). Effectively plan and manage engineering budgets and project objectives consistent with Product Roadmaps. Manage engineering resources and staffing levels consistent with the business's strategic plan & AOP.

Provide technical coaching and mentoring to team and employees. Interface with supply chain on all technical matters. Participate in technical evaluations of internal and external technologies in support of business objectives.

Coordinate IRAD & CRAD projects. Create and promote an environment where engineers can grow professionally and become the best at what they do. Consult MUAS leaders to establish strategic plans and objectives; regularly interact with executives and/or major customers, negotiating and influencing senior level leaders regarding matters of significance to the organization.

Develop, implement, and continuously improve engineering tools and best practices. Be able to travel up to 25% of the time. Other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a relevant Engineering discipline (Manufacturing, Mechanical, Aerospace, etc.) or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience; an advanced degree is preferred. Minimum of 8–12 years of demonstrated experience in aerospace product design and sustainment. Experience with drawings and BOMs; engineering change systems; quality systems for non-conforming parts and corrective action.

Experience with product manufacturing and product configuration processes. Experience leading a multi-disciplinary team in an engineering environment. Project management experience a plus.

Experience and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and other office productivity tools. Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies Education or experience in aircraft subsystems in R&D environment is preferred. Follows standard practices and procedures when analyzing situations or data.

Consistently works within specific requirements and completes tasks under general supervision. Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives. Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products.

Committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve performance of self and others. Has effective problem‑solving, analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills. Team player focused on teamwork, collaboration, and prioritizing team success.

Physical Demands Ability to work in an office and manufacturing environment. Required to sit and stand for long periods (frequently). Required to talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (frequently).

Clearance Level No clearance required. Salary Range $148,000 – $217,875. Benefits AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule, and a paid holiday shutdown.

ITAR Requirement This position requires access to information subject to compliance with the International Traffic Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR and EAR, or be approved for an export license by the governing agency. U.S. citizenship and willingness to work on government contracts and obtain a security clearance are required.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement You are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other legally protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr