Director of Engineering

SkyGrid, a Boeing, SparkCognition company, is powering the next generation of aviation. We are solving the industry's biggest challenge integrating unmanned aircraft into complex, rapidly changing airspace.

SkyGrid is defining a future where highly automated aircraft operate without the need for onboard pilots. We develop the safety-of-life approved flight operations management services for such aircraft to ensure operations of all participants in the air transportation system are safe and secure.

The SkyGrid team is looking for a Director of Engineering to lead all engineering disciplines in the development and qualification of a complex Airspace Integration System.

In this role you will drive the growth of the engineering organization, contribute to strategic product development planning, provide clear and effective reporting to leadership, and flow down company objectives through managers and subordinates.

You will also provide technical leadership and guidance on certified and non-certified system development. You will work closely with various cross functional teams such as program management & certification, product management, process assurance (safety, RAM, quality, and cyber) and operations organizations while reporting to the Chief Engineer.

Performance Objectives

• Responsible for growing the engineering team to meet 2024 target.
• Responsible for setting engineering organization's objectives in alignment with company KPIs and flowing down to individuals through managers.
• Track all engineering deliverables for Preliminary Design Review and Demonstration testing milestones.
• Streamline the development and qualification process for the certified system.
• Streamline the development and qualification for the prototypical system in accordance with TRL (NASA source) development.

Responsibilites

• Team Management :
• Oversee the recruitment and selection of engineers.
• Onboard direct reports and continuously improve engineering onboarding process and artifacts.
• Solicit and develop training opportunities for team members.
• Ensure that engineers have the necessary tools and resources to succeed and recommend placement based on the requests and required skillsets.
• Strategic Planning :
• Establish goals and milestones aligned with the organization's objectives.
• Set and oversee project milestones and timelines.
• Technical Guidance :
• Provide oversight throughout the development life cycle activities including planning, requirements, design, implementation, verification and release for achieving system certification / approval.
• Ensure compliance with all required development standards such as ARP-4754, DO-178, DO-254 and produce necessary artifacts.
• Provide technical leadership in system and architecture development and qualification best practices, participate in the gate reviews and design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR).
• Ensure engineering organization adheres to IT, cybersecurity, and company policies.
• Review assurance (safety, certification, cyber security) plans and requirements ensuring compliance with engineering product.
• Leadership and Communication :
• Communicate goals to team members, coordinate and direct technical leaders (IPT leads).
• Keep executive leadership abreast on progress and resources.
• Support regulators in all required audit as Engineering representative.
• Identify all engineering risks and communicate to PMO for timely resolution.

Qualifications :

• Master's degree in engineering or STEM discipline.
• 10+ years of engineering experience in aviation industry with 5+ years managing a sizable team.
• Experience in developing certified complex systems or aircraft.
• Familiar with commercial aviation standards such as ARP-4754A, ARP-4761, DO-178C, DO-254, DO-160.
• Strong communication skills, self-driven and capable of participating in senior leadership discussions.
• Prior experience with system development lifecycle.
• Proficiency in planning and tracking tools such as MS Project, Jira.

Preferred Qualifications :

Previous experience in an engineering leadership role at a director level.

Join Our Team and Enjoy Exceptional Benefits :

• Comprehensive Health Coverage from Day One : Enjoy immediate access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, including HSA and FSA options.
• Generous Retirement Contributions : Benefit from an automatic company 401k contribution program, with no match required, plus an additional company matching program to boost your retirement savings.
• Headspace Annual Membership : Prioritize your mental health with complimentary access to mindfulness and meditation resources.
• Discounted ClassPass Membership : Stay active and healthy with access to thousands of fitness studios and gyms nationwide.
• Investment in Your Growth : Receive an annual stipend for learning and development to support your continuous education and skill development
• Engaging Team Activities : Participate in quarterly team-building events and celebrations organized by our dedicated culture committee.
• Fully Stocked Kitchen : Enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages to keep you fueled throughout the day.
• Custom Lunches : Savor delicious, customized lunches on in-office days, tailored to your preferences.

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