Position Overview:We are seeking an experienced and driven Director of R&D to lead the research and development efforts of our firearms product portfolio. This leadership role will be responsible for building and guiding a high-performing R&D team based in Fort Smith, AR, with full accountability for the design, testing, and launch of innovative firearm systems.
The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in product design and development, project management, and proven leadership abilities, with a demonstrated history of taking products from concept through to production. This position is critical to driving our strategic growth through technological innovation and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead and develop the Fort Smith-based R&D team, including recruiting and developing top engineering talent and fostering a collaborative, innovative culture.
- Oversee the design, development, and testing of new firearms and related technologies, ensuring products meet safety, performance, and regulatory requirements.
- Provide technical leadership and vision to guide the development of next-generation firearms platforms.
- Manage multiple concurrent R&D projects using proven project management methodologies to meet schedule, cost, and performance targets.
- Collaborate with Product Management, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to ensure smooth product launches.
- Establish and maintain test protocols and performance validation standards for new designs.
- Maintain awareness of industry trends, competitive products, and emerging technologies.
- Drive a continuous improvement mindset within the R&D team, focusing on innovation, efficiency, and product excellence.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and international regulations related to firearms development and testing.
- Lead the development and maintenance of drawing control processes.
Qualifications:- Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Advanced technical degree or MBA is a plus.
- 10+ years of progressive experience in product design and development.
- Proven track record of successfully leading design and R&D teams, with strong people management and leadership skills.
- Ability to develop a deep understanding of firearms systems, ballistics, materials, manufacturing processes, and regulatory standards (e.g., ATF, ITAR).
- Strong experience in project management tools and techniques; PMP certification and SolidWorks PDM experience is a plus.
- Demonstrated ability to bring new products to market from concept through full-scale production.
- Exceptional communication, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Experience in 3-D CAD design, focusing on SolidWorks, and other engineering analysis software.
- Experience in ANSI-Y-14.5 drawing terms and tolerances.
- Experience in DFM in a Lean environment.
Additional Qualifications:- A solid leadership style based on the development and support of those you lead.
- A passion for metric driven results.
- A team focused approach to design and development which leverages feedback and input across the organization.
- Excellent interpersonal skills providing clear communication at all levels.
- Exceptional product life cycle management skills.
- Proven success of project management through documentation and KPIs.
- An ability to prioritize and pivot based on internal and external customer demands.
- Strong ethics, integrity and leadership qualities that inspire trust and confidence from all levels.
- An established history of mentoring, motivating and developing individuals.
- A Cultural fit built around engagement, empowerment and servant leadership.
