Chief Engineer, Hypersonic Vehicle

Chief Engineer, Hypersonic VehicleMojave, California, United StatesStratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.Stratolaunch is seeking a Chief Engineer to be a high-impact technical leader for hypersonic air vehicle programs. This position will be the top technical authority and conscience on their development program. This position is trusted to lead people, to develop and execute technical strategies for open-ended problems, manage risk, and to communicate successfully with internal and external customers. The ideal candidate is a demonstrated leader and team player with significant experience across aerospace platforms, possessing a breadth of technical expertise across aircraft systems, aircraft certification, store certification, maintenance, and operations.ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:Partner with Program Director/Managers and support functions to achieve successful customer program executionExperience acting as a program integrator/prime contractorLead trade studies and make final technical decisions, requiring balance across a wide breadth of disciplines to include: aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, structures, controls and aero-thermodynamicsApply Systems Engineering principles to control scope, manage risk, and drive quality technical executionSupport test planning and execution as required (ground and flight)Support business proposals and planningFacilitate successful technical meetings and reviews such as Engineering Review Board phase-gate technical reviews. (e.g., SRR, PDR, CDR)Create engineering staffing plans and identify skillset gaps in the teamEffectively collaborate across the enterprise in support of business objectives and program executionREQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:Outstanding communication and interpersonal skillsDemonstrated success as an engineering team leader and experience balancing cost, schedule, and technical performance considerations when making decisionsDemonstrated proficiency as a front-line manager of technical employeesExperience maintaining, modifying, or testing aerospace platformsExperience recruiting and hiring engineersAbility to interact with customers and/or external stakeholdersDemonstrated success applying analytical and critical thinking skills to solve multi-disciplinary, open-ended technical problemsAbility to work independently in a dynamic environment to achieve business goalsUS Citizen with the ability to obtain a DOD security clearancePREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:Demonstrated success as a Chief Engineer of development programsExperience with hypersonic and supersonic vehicle developmentExperience supporting defense contracts and working on classified programsHypersonic/high-speed tactical missile experience highly desirable (e.g. multi-stage systems, hot structure airframes, launch platform integration)Experience with rocket propulsion systemsActive TS/SCI security clearanceExperience with Siemens NX/TeamcenterEDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:Staff-level ($157,000-$206,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experiencePrincipal Level ($181,000-$237,300): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 20+ years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experienceSr. Principal-Level ($k): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 25+ years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience.Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable:Position based in Mojave, CA. It is strongly preferred the candidate be fully on-site. Consideration for hybrid (partial remote/on-site work) work location arrangement at no less than 75-80% on-site time for well-qualified candidates.Travel, as needed, to support the department. Travel estimated to be <10%Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews. Benefits and our location(s):Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)Paid Maternity and Parental Leave50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500Tuition reimbursementStratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees' and applicants' time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law: