WL- Director of Engineering

Fairbanks Morse Defense•Thomaston, CT

About The Position

Ward Leonard, a proud Fairbanks Morse Defense company, is seeking a Director of Engineering to lead mission-critical innovation supporting U.S. Navy applications. This is an opportunity to own and elevate the performance of engineering and quality functions by driving advanced motor and control systems in a highly regulated environment. You will set the direction, establish the metrics, and drive accountability across engineering—ensuring consistent delivery of reliable, compliant, and high-performance products. Working across cross-functional teams, you will align execution with business priorities, remove bottlenecks, and push the organization toward higher levels of performance. We are looking for a leader who brings a strong point of view, thrives in complexity, and knows how to turn strategy into measurable results. Exceptional organizational discipline, clear and effective communication, and the ability to challenge conventional thinking are essential. Ward Leonard offers meaningful, mission-driven work supporting national defense, a strong commitment to veterans, a competitive benefits package including a robust 401(k), and a bonus-eligible structure. Position Overview: The Director of Engineering leads engineering and quality to deliver compliant, high-performance motor and control systems for U.S. Navy applications. This role drives cross-functional alignment, enforces rigorous standards, and advances innovation through a metrics-driven, performance-focused approach.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering (Master’s degree preferred).
Minimum of 10 years of engineering experience in manufacturing, preferably in defense or aerospace industries.
Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience managing engineering and/or quality teams.
Strong knowledge of electrical and electromechanical power systems, motors, and controls, including design, testing, and manufacturing.
Familiarity with MIL-SPEC standards, ITAR compliance, and other defense industry regulations.
Proficiency in engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks) and project management tools.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for technical reporting, presentations, and data analysis.
Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build long-lasting relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.
Must be a U.S. Citizen and provide proof of U.S. Citizenship (e.g., U.S. Passport, Birth Certificate, or Naturalization Certificate).

Nice To Haves

Experience working on products for U.S. Navy applications or similar defense programs.
Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Visual Manufacturing).
Current Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other process improvement certifications.
Active security clearance or eligibility to obtain one.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic and operational leadership to the engineering and quality teams to ensure alignment with business objectives and customer requirements.
Mentor and develop team leaders and individual contributors, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and professional growth.
Drive the design, development, and testing of motors and controls to ensure product performance, reliability, and compliance with U.S. Navy standards.
Ensure all engineering and quality activities comply with U.S. Navy regulations, MIL-SPEC standards, NEMA and UL standards, as well as other defense and industry requirements.
Oversee rigorous quality assurance and testing protocols for motors and controls to meet critical performance and reliability standards.
Act as the primary technical and quality liaison to customers and external partners, providing expertise on engineering and quality matters.
Lead initiatives for new product development and continuous improvement to meet technical requirements and business objectives.
Oversee resource planning, training, and performance management for the engineering and quality teams.
Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, and deliverables for engineering and quality initiatives, ensuring timely completion.
Drive root-cause analysis and corrective action initiatives to address technical and quality challenges.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Manufacturing, Operations, Quality, and Sales, to ensure seamless integration of engineering and quality efforts into production and delivery.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of defense-related standards, certifications, and compliance frameworks such as ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) and DFARS (Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement).
Support business development efforts by contributing to technical proposals, specifications, and customer presentations.
Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as required.