About The Position

We are seeking a dedicated Functional Engineering Manager who recognizes that validating mission-critical flight hardware starts with supporting the people doing the work. In this role, you will balance technical stewardship with a people-first leadership philosophy. Your primary metric of success is not merely the speed of delivery, but the delivery of high-quality, well-vetted products achieved through high retention, psychological safety, and the continuous professional growth of your engineering team. The Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers’ missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution.

Requirements

  • BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required plus 10 or more years related experience.
  • Each higher-level degree, i.e., Master’s Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of experience.
  • Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education.
  • Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
  • A current, active Top Secret/SCI security clearance is required.
  • Domain Familiarity: Experience in an engineering or testing environment for high-reliability hardware (Aerospace, Space Systems, or Defense).
  • Empathy-Driven Leadership: Exceptional emotional intelligence (EQ), active listening skills, and the ability to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics.
  • Career Pathing & Coaching: Proven ability to build career ladders, identify individual motivators, and guide engineers through professional milestones.
  • Advocacy & Influence: Excellent communication skills to advocate for team health and bandwidth during demanding delivery schedules.

Nice To Haves

  • 2+ years of direct people management experience with a track record of coaching and leading technical talent.
  • Experience in the testing of spacecraft mechanisms such as gimbals, motors, hinges, scan mirrors, and related components.
  • Experience scaling engineering teams through periods of organizational growth.
  • Previous experience as a practicing Test or Hardware Engineer.
  • Experience implementing modern peer-mentorship programs or engineering competency frameworks.
  • Familiarity with engineering performance management tools and continuous feedback frameworks.

Responsibilities

  • Functionally manage a team of approximately 10 Space Vehicle Mechanism Systems Test Engineers.
  • Support personalized career advancement tracks, conduct performance reviews, and champion team wellness as the group grows.
  • Cultivate an environment centered on psychological safety, ensuring the team feels empowered to pause testing, speak up, and collaborate openly.
  • Partner with talent acquisition to source, interview, and onboard engineering talent, ensuring seamless integration into the company culture.
  • Act as the technical touchpoint for Project Managers and Mission Leadership.
  • Ensure projects progress in the right direction with the appropriate engineering resources and support the capture of new business.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company.
  • Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
  • Perform other duties as necessary.

Benefits

  • health, dental, and vision insurance
  • health savings accounts
  • a 401(k) savings plan
  • disability coverage
  • life and accident insurance
  • employee assistance program
  • legal plan
  • discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance
  • paid time off
  • paid holidays
  • paid parental leave
  • military leave
  • bereavement leave
  • any applicable federal and state sick leave
  • company recognition program
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