Chief Engineer

Chief Engineer - 1574Full TimeCypress, CA, USScientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems; partnering with our customers to address real world problems with cost effective solutions… that work.SARA, Inc. is looking for an experienced Chief Engineer to join and lead a team of talented program managers, engineers, software developers, physicists, and technicians on long-term programs supporting the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in our Artificial Perception and Threat Awareness (APTA) division, located in Cypress CA. The selectee will have the opportunity to exercise their initiative, adaptability, drive, and of course, subject matter mastery in a fast-paced, highly technical environment while contributing to our Directional Receiver Venture.Core Responsibilities:Leading the technical teamExecuting assigned technical tasksInteracting with and developing a good relationship with outside customersEnsuring contractual requirements are metConverting contractual requirements into specific subtasks and measurable milestonesProviding a detailed, integrated technical development plan for software, electronic, and mechanical engineering team membersAdapting development plans based on technical issues and task dependencies between the engineering teamsOptimizing technical requirements and workflow against cost and scheduleEvaluating and tracking technical progressProviding technical solutions and insight when the engineering team encounters difficultiesDeveloping test plans for experiments and requirement verification testsPost-test analysis of dataPresenting detailed technical briefingsRequirements:Bachelor’s degree in relevant engineering field (mechanical, electrical, software, systems, etc.)5 – 7 years engineering experience2+ years of experience successfully leading an engineering teamStrong technical background in at least one engineering discipline (mechanical, electrical, software, systems,…)Demonstrated ability to understand customer needs and a product use caseDemonstrated ability to perceive and communicate a product visionDemonstrated ability to decompose a product vision into a system and then into componentsStrong grasp of system development methodologies including V-process, Agile, and Spiral developmentsStrong verbal and written communication skillsUS citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret clearanceMay require Moderate physical effort, including standing, sitting, and use of hands while performing duties, and carrying or lifting up to 50 poundsWorking environment is indoor, moderately loud, reasonably clean, well-lighted, and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may existPreferred qualifications:Master’s degree in relevant engineering field (mechanical, electrical, software, systems, etc.)8 – 10 years of engineering experience5+ years of experience successfully leading an engineering teamA history of successful product developmentsExperience in design for manufacturingExperience with product lifecycle management including support, firmware updates, and maintenanceDemonstrable understanding of best practices in program managementSARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programsA generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)Tuition & certification reimbursementFlexible work schedulesDiscretionary Employee bonuses401(k) match/profit sharingEmployee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)Pay RangeSalary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $125,000 to $175,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer