Chief Engineer

Core Responsibilities

• Lead and integrate designs across all engineering disciplines, including propulsion, electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, software, aerodynamics, flight controls, and vehicle management systems.
• Direct aircraft certification processes, ensuring rigorous compliance with Development Systems Engineering, Systems Safety, USAF Airworthiness criteria, and Nuclear Certification.
• Collaborate closely with contractors chief engineers, program managers, and senior Air Force leadership, navigating a highly variable environment with multiple contractors and stakeholders.
• Translate and brief complex technical issues and solutions directly to General Officer-level leadership.

Basic Qualifications & Eligibility

• Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Clearance: Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
• Certification: Must obtain APDP Engineering & Technical Management Level 2. Practitioner certification within the required training period (and maintain continuous learning points).
• Travel & Testing: Willingness to travel as required; position may be designated for random drug testing.

Required Experience & Technical Expertise

• Demonstrated expertise in Development Systems Engineering and Operational Safety Suitability & Effectiveness (OSS&E).
• Proven track record in large aircraft modification and complex flight test processes, procedures, and execution.
• Deep understanding of aircraft certification processes, specifically Airworthiness, Nuclear Certification, and Aerial Refueling.
• Working knowledge and ability to apply specifications, standards, and best practices across the following disciplines:
• Aerodynamics (internal & external) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
• Flying Qualities, Stability & Control (S&C), and Aircraft Performance
• Propulsion and Propulsion Integration
• Aircraft Structures, Avionics, and Software Development