Director-AD&D Aircraft Concepts

Responsibilities

• Develop, lead, and manage a small team of multidisciplinary engineers.
• Lead aircraft conceptual design, aircraft modification designs, and new powerplants and mechanical systems evaluations.
• Execute aircraft sizing studies, mission definition, performance analyses, and range/payload optimization.
• Execute airframe design including configuration layout, structural design, materials, weight estimation, and manufacturability considerations.
• Execute powerplant and mechanical system design including installation geometry, cooling, airflow management, routing, vibration, and system integration.
• Conduct weight, cost, and reliability assessments for feasibility and down select decisions.
• Execute the design, build, and test of wind tunnel models and first-flight-ready proof of concept aircraft.
• Collaborate and coordinate closely with other teams, including but not Advanced Systems, Advanced Manufacturing, Industrial Design, Experimental Manufacturing, Flight Test, Customer Experience, and Platform Leadership Teams.
• Communicate complex technical concepts, risks, findings, and recommendations to leadership and cross-functional partners.
• Provide product strategy and guidance, including input on technical and product road maps, marketing requirements and objectives, and design requirements and objectives.
• Complete assigned tasks on time and budget.
• Communicate effectively and efficiently to diverse audiences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Systems Engineering, or related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 5+ years direct management experience leading teams of 10 or more engineering staff.
• 10+ years of experience in aircraft design, build, and test.
• Pilot certificate (private or higher preferred).
• Hands-on experience working on multiple aircraft (building, testing, maintaining, etc.).
• Strong understanding of aerodynamics, aircraft performance, propulsion/powerplants, and flight control systems.
• Strong understanding of prototype fabrication methods and early flight test processes.
• Proficiency with CAD tools and ability to read and interpret CFD results and aircraft performance reports.
• Proven ability to lead early-phase development from clean-sheet concepts through prototype build and testing.
• Ability to make rapid, sound engineering decisions with limited data.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of FAA regulations, guidance materials, and safety of flight and airworthiness requirements and processes.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with fluency in English.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience building homebuilt, experimental, or one-off prototype aircraft.
• Experience planning and executing wind-tunnel tests and analyzing aerodynamic data.
• Experience supporting flight-test operations or performing flight-test engineering tasks.
• Experience with advanced propulsion concepts, and unconventional powerplant installations.
• Experience with complex requirements sets, systems development assurance processes, and systems safety analysis methods.
• Proficiency with PTC CREO/Windchill, MathWorks tools (e.g., Matlab, Simulink), Atlassian tools (e.g., Jira), and programming languages (e.g., Python or C++).
• Experience performing multidisciplinary trade studies and influencing configuration downselect decisions.
• Familiarity with FAA certification frameworks (Part 23, Part 27, ACs, and industry consensus standards).
• Demonstrated ability to communicate, negotiate, and collaborate effectively across all levels of an organization, from the shop floor to the C-suite.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options.
• Employer-Paid Coverages: Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: FSA and HSA offerings with company contributions to HSA.
• Well-being: Calm Health, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness incentives through medical provider.
• 401(k) Plan: Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting at 1 year of service.
• PTO: Various PTO plans starting at 100 hours accrued within the first year.
• Additional Time off Benefits: Paid holidays, 2 weeks of Paid Parental leave, paid time for funeral leave and jury duty.
• Career Development: Tuition reimbursement program and professional growth opportunities.
• Exclusive Discounts: Cirrus Store, partner and marketplace discounts available.
• Community & Engagement: Company and employee clubs at various locations.