Chief Engineer Automated Assembly (Aerospace & Defense)
About The Position
Are you ready to lead the design and development of next-generation automation systems where high-precision small parts handling, assembly, and inspection come together to enable advanced manufacturing in aerospace and defense applications? We're seeking a Chief Engineer to lead the conceptual, technical, and research direction of PAR's most ambitious assembly automation programs. In this role, you'll serve as a senior technical leader within PAR's Automated Assembly group, driving innovation in complex, small-parts assembly automation for mission-critical aerospace and defense systems. Our Chief Engineers operate at the intersection of innovation and delivery. You'll translate customer needs into practical, cost-effective automation concepts, guide R D that expands PAR's assembly and process capabilities and serve as a trusted technical resource to engineering teams tackling their most challenging problems.
Requirements
- 10+ years of experience in custom automation or small-parts assembly system design and delivery.
- BS in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related field); MS preferred.
- Proven record in the design and integration of automated assembly systems including part handling, precision fixturing, laser integration, fastening, dispensing, and inspection.
- Experience developing automation for regulated industries such as aerospace or defense, with working knowledge of AS9100 and ISO 9001 quality standards.
- Demonstrated success in RFQ concept development, cost estimation, and proposal generation aligned to customer requirements.
- Experience leading cross-functional technical teams through complex problem-solving and system validation.
- Demonstrated capability in guiding R D initiatives and integrating emerging automation technologies into production solutions.
- Strong leadership and communication skills—able to engage directly with customers and clearly articulate technical strategies to executives and engineers alike.
- Experience collaborating with legal teams on IP management and technical contract negotiation.
Responsibilities
- Engage directly with customers to understand technical and operational requirements for aerospace and defense assembly systems.
- Lead concept development for Requests for Quotation (RFQs), defining architectures, technologies, and risk mitigation strategies.
- Collaborate across mechanical, electrical, controls, and project management disciplines to refine technical solutions and produce accurate cost, schedule, and risk estimates.
- Present technical approaches and business cases to internal stakeholders, including senior leadership, for alignment with company strategy.
- Serve as a primary technical voice in business development discussions, ensuring solutions balance innovation, manufacturability, and profitability.
- Contribute to the long-range R D roadmap for Automated Assembly, identifying technologies that enhance PAR's capabilities in small-parts handling, precision assembly, and inspection automation.
- Collaborate with external partners, universities, and suppliers to accelerate innovation in robotics, sensing, and digital factory integration.
- Represent PAR in industry conferences and technical forums to strengthen our leadership in advanced assembly automation.
- Act as a senior technical advisor and “Red Team” leader who is called upon to help project teams resolve high-complexity design, process, or integration challenges.
- Facilitate structured problem-solving reviews, applying engineering fundamentals and cross-disciplinary insight to guide root cause identification and resolution.
- Mentor engineers in automation design principles, system integration, and technical risk management, building organizational depth and technical maturity.
Benefits
- Global team recognized for their passion of inventing
- First-of-a-kind product culture and project exposure
- Training and development from industry-leading experts
- Cutting edge benefit programs that include: 401(k) & matching; Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance; Disability & Life Insurance; PTO, Paid Holidays, & Parental Leave for both Parents; Tuition Reimbursement
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Number of Employees
501-1,000 employees
