Director of Engineering (Defense / Electromechanical Systems)

Engineering Director (Defense / Electromechanical Systems)

Location: Farmingdale, NY Area (On-site)

Position Type: Full-Time / Permanent

Compensation: $190,000 – $215,000 / year (Commensurate with experience)

Reporting To: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Position Overview

We are seeking a seasoned, strategic Engineering Director to lead our multidisciplinary engineering and R&D operations. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), this senior leadership role will oversee the design, development, and production execution of advanced defense and electromechanical systems.

The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership capabilities, a proven track record in the Defense Industry , and an engineering background capable of guiding complex technical programs from concept through production. You will directly lead the Research & Design (R&D) team while collaborating alongside two existing Engineering Managers to drive technical excellence, program delivery, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Executive & Team Leadership: Directly lead, mentor, and build a high-performing Research & Design (R&D) engineering team and technical staff. Drive performance evaluations, career development, coaching, and succession planning.

Reporting & Collaboration: Report directly to the COO while working closely with peer Engineering Managers, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, and Supply Chain leadership to align program priorities and execution.

Program & Lifecycle Management: Oversee complete product lifecycles from early concept and design through manufacturing, qualification, and field support.

R&D & Technical Strategy: Guide technical direction and innovation for defense and electromechanical products, establishing engineering priorities, milestone schedules, and budget accountability.

Process & Operations Optimization: Drive continuous improvement initiatives across engineering processes, design methodologies, quality standards, and regulatory/defense compliance.

Resource Allocation: Manage engineering priorities and staffing allocation across multiple concurrent defense programs to meet delivery deadlines.

Qualifications & Requirements

Industry Experience: Proven engineering management background in the Defense / Aerospace sector is required.

Leadership Experience: Significant experience managing direct-report engineering teams, with a strong emphasis on people management, mentorship, and operational leadership.

Educational & Technical Background: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electromechanical, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, or related engineering discipline preferred).

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Demonstrated history of partnering effectively with Executive Leadership, Operations, Quality, and Manufacturing teams.

Compliance & Standards: Knowledge of defense procurement, program execution, and quality management standards.

Compensation & Benefits

Base Salary Range: $190,000 to $215,000 annually , depending on candidate expertise and background fit.

Full corporate benefits package (Health, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO).

High-growth leadership role with direct executive influence and team-building opportunities.

Compensation / Pay Rate (Up to): $190,000.00 - $215,000.00