Director of Engineering - Defense Vehicle Development

Company: Louis Heyden Group, LLC
Location: Milwaukee
Posted on: August 7, 2022

Job Description:

Director of Engineering
A new tracked vehicle of strategic and tactical importance is being developed, and my client is looking for a Director of Engineering to build and mentor leadership within the engineering team, as well as partner with the customer in product/vehicle development. It is a highly important and visible role that holds significant career growth. As an industry-leading vehicle manufacturer, they strive to exceed the market's ever-changing needs with next generation defense technologies and advanced systems. They have a diverse portfolio of vehicle platforms and global brands. They operate with unquestioning commitment to those who depend on their products to perform their mission and get back safely. Position Summary: Technical expertise---Technical and managerial leadership (automotive chassis, suspension, and vehicle dynamics, mixed with defense experience would be ideal) focusing on the strategic objectives of the end customer. You will lead the effort to meet and exceed the requirements of the customer, creating highly advanced, innovative, and safe vehicles. Communication skills---Making the complex easy to understand for those that are not necessarily technical sums up the communication skills required. Effective communication of complex ideas, details, and activities with the team, executive leadership, and the customer is essential. Leadership and mentoring---Being a "Leader of Leaders" is vital aspect of this role. Building, mentoring, and developing the leadership and managerial skills of a highly skilled engineering team will be a cornerstone of the role. Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead multiple engineering teams consisting of managers, engineers, administrators, and designers.
• Provide coaching and leadership development for the team including workforce and succession planning, resource allocation, horizon planning, conflict resolution, and people first leadership.
• Provide leadership to the Business Unit engineering group, developing strategic vision, providing organizational support, and creating cost effective, innovative products and processes.
• Research, study, and propose use of new technologies to be used in the design build of new and improved products.
• Provide input to Bid and Proposal requirements related to design, research, test, and development support of the programs.
• Provide project management reports on engineering systems, production engineering, product design and development, and test results.
• Understand market share and P&L for their product lines - strong business acumen.
• Prepare and controls department budget(s), forecasts operating costs of department, and directs preparation of budget requests.
• Manage the budgeting process to include recommending capital improvements and preparing justification data as required.
• Collaboration with cross- functional and cross-segment leaders providing expertise with time study, product flow, equipment needs, and application of safety provisions and practices.
• Enforce the proper use of engineering criteria and vehicle standards. and ensure that teams are aligned and in compliance with certifications such as IATF 16949.
• Evaluate designs for cost, schedule, performance, safety, and reliability and communicate opportunities back to other engineering functional groups.
• Understand effective design, build, and test data management ensuring products meet the specific performance requirements of designs. Qualifications:
  • BS in Engineering.
  • 12+ years in automotive or vehicle engineering related experience.
  • 5+ leadership and management experience. Preferred Qualifications:
    • Mechanical knowledge of vehicles: Chassis, Vehicle Dynamics, Suspension, Powertrain, etc.
    • Advanced engineering tactics.
    • MS in related field a plus.
    • Trained in risk assessment and other quality processes.
    • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
    • Experience working closely with end customers.
    • Experience and active participation in relevant professional organizations (SAE, IEEE, etc.).
    • Able to obtain a security clearance as required by the job duties.
    • Ability to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
    • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
    • Experience with automotive or heavy-vehicle equipment.
      Compensation:
      • The position offers a very competitive compensation and relocation package.
        Reach out / connect, and we can talk!
        Jeff HeydenSenior Client Partnerlinkedin.com/in/jheyden

Keywords: Louis Heyden Group, LLC, Milwaukee , Director of Engineering - Defense Vehicle Development, Executive , Milwaukee, Wisconsin