Persistent Recruiting Solutions is representing an exceptional company. See more details below:
Job Title: Vice President of Engineering
Location: Erie Co, NY
Department: Executive Leadership
Reports To: General Manager/President
About Us
We are a next-generation aerospace company operating on a decentralized model—leveraging global talent, high mix/low volume custom made-to-order manufacturing, and collaboration to design, build, and scale aerospace components. Our mission is to revolutionize aerospace by removing traditional barriers, embracing autonomy, and delivering high-performance solutions at a rapid pace.
Position Summary
The Vice President of Engineering is responsible for leading the engineering function across product development, manufacturing/sustaining engineering, technical documentation, and production support. This role ensures the delivery of innovative, high-quality solutions through integrated Business Unit teams and cross-functional collaboration. The VP of Engineering drives strategic initiatives, oversees project execution, and fosters a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence. This position is a key member of the executive leadership team and plays a critical role in shaping the company’s future.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage engineering teams across R&D, manufacturing engineering, and project engineering.
- Guide the design and development of new products, including material selection, specifications, and testing.
- Oversee project management processes to ensure timely and budget-conscious delivery.
- Develop and maintain engineering processes aligned with industry standards (e.g., PPAP, Configuration Management).
- Conduct internal and customer-attended design reviews; assess compliance with customer specifications.
- Drive continuous improvement in product and process design to enhance quality and reduce cycle time.
- Provide technical direction and support to procurement, quality assurance, drafting, and production teams.
- Maintain and improve digital databases of drawings and specifications.
- Administer Engineering Test Lab and Prototype Shop operations.
- Ensure engineering analysis of returned products and failures.
- Approve final drawings, specifications, test plans, and engineering orders.
- Plan and manage R&D projects and new product line development.
- Lead efforts in patent acquisition and intellectual property management.
- Develop and track KPIs for engineering performance.
- Hire, train, and evaluate engineering personnel; foster a high-performance culture.
- Ensure compliance with the company’s Code of Conduct and ethics.
- Represent the company with customers and suppliers, providing field support and technical expertise.
- Participate in strategic planning and executive reviews as needed.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field required.
- Minimum 10 years of progressive engineering experience, including new product design and development.
- At least 3 years of engineering management or team leadership experience.
- Experience in aerospace or engineered components
- Familiarity with ASME/ANSI drawing standards and manufacturing practices.
- Strong background in project management and technical documentation.
- Strategic leadership and technical vision.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Proven ability to develop and mentor engineering talent.
- High ethical standards and integrity.
- Effective cross-functional collaboration.
- Strong organizational and decision-making skills.
- Experience with CAD systems and engineering databases.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive innovation.
Preferred:
- Master’s in engineering degree
- Willing to relocate for future promotions to other US locations.
Why Join Us
- Be part of a pioneering aerospace company challenging traditional paradigms.
- Work in a hands-on, on-site environment with some of the brightest minds across aerospace, tech, and manufacturing.
- Competitive compensation, equity options, and global collaboration.
- Career growth to be General Manager/President in one of our 65 divisions across the US.
- Relocation expenses covered.
- Compensation: $200K+ base, bonus, and a generous stock option plan in a publicly traded company. Total compensation package will exceed $400K annually.
