Lockheed Martin

Research Engineering Director

Lockheed Martin$180K — $325K *
Aerospace & Defense
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 15+ years experience in complex systems development and integration for airborne and maritime platforms
  • Proven leadership of large distributed engineering teams
  • Experience managing multi-task-order portfolios
  • Expertise in proposal development, SOW creation, and cost control
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills at all levels
  • U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain a Secret security clearance

Responsibilities

  • Lead and mentor an engineering team of over 180 personnel
  • Oversee execution of 75+ engineering task orders across various platforms
  • Develop and maintain the engineering organization roadmap and manpower forecasts
  • Implement continuous improvement initiatives using Lean/Six-Sigma
  • Establish relationships with USSOCOM customers and partners
  • Contribute to business development and proposal efforts
  • Manage configuration and risk assessments for airworthiness compliance
  • Provide status briefings to senior leadership on project progress

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Flexible work arrangements including 4x10 schedules
  • 401(k) matching contributions
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Parental leave support
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Education assistance for continuous learning
  • Life, Short-Term, and Long-Term disability insurance
Full Job Description
Standard Job Description

The Director of Engineering provides overall leadership for the engineering organization supporting the SOF GLSS contract. This role is responsible for all product development, functional management, and engineering infrastructure across a ~ $1 B/year portfolio that includes Fixed Wing, Rotary Wing, ground vehicle, and maritime platforms. The selected candidate will drive cost, schedule, and quality excellence while fostering a high performance culture and strong partner collaboration. Approximately 25-50% travel is the expectation if the candidate is not based in Lexington, KY.

Key Responsibilities
  • Leadership & Management - Direct and mentor a functional engineering team of >180 personnel, including Mission Area Chief Engineers, Platform Project Engineers, and functional managers (ME, EE, SEIT, SW, AeroSciences).
  • Portfolio Oversight - Manage 75+ engineering task orders, ensuring successful execution of design, integration, test, and sustainment activities across AC/MC-130J, MH-6, MH-60, MH-47, and maritime platforms.
  • Strategic Planning - Develop and maintain the engineering organization roadmap, staffing plans, and 6-month manpower forecasts using ETCs from COBRA and proposal win forecasts.
  • Process Development - Lead continuous improvement initiatives, including the implementation of concurrent engineering processes, automated dashboards, and Lean/Six-Sigma methodologies.
  • Customer & Partner Relations - Establish and sustain strong relationships with USSOCOM customers, subcontractors, and broader Lockheed Martin Business Areas; act as primary technical liaison for all engineering related matters.
  • Proposal & Business Development - Contribute to proposal development, Statement of Work creation, cost estimating, and support contract recompete efforts.
  • Risk & Configuration Management - Oversee aircraft and vehicle configuration management, risk assessments, and compliance for airworthiness and sustainment requirements.
  • Reporting & Communication - Provide monthly status briefings to senior leadership (USG, Director, VP, and MFC senior leadership) and maintain rigorous business rhythms (weekly/monthly RYG status).

Additiional Information About This Opportunity

This role is located in either Lexington, KY or Fort Walton Beach, FL

MUST BE A US CITIZEN: This role requires the selected candidate to have the ability to obtain a Secret security clearance

Basic Qualifications

  • Minimum 15 years of experience in complex systems development, integration, and test across missiles, ground, fixed wing, rotary wing, and maritime platforms.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead large, distributed engineering teams in GOCO and IDIQ environments.
  • Proven track record managing multi-task-order portfolios.
  • Strong expertise in proposal development, SOW creation, schedule management, and cost control.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills; ability to interact at all organizational levels.
  • Must be a US citizen and have the ability to obtain an interim Secret clearance after accepting an offer and before starting the position.


Desired Skills

  • Broad Multi Platform Technical Expertise - Hands on knowledge of Fixed Wing, Rotary Wing, ground vehicle, missile, and maritime systems to credibly guide engineers across all portfolio platforms.
  • Configuration & Change Management - Proven ability to establish and maintain rigorous configuration baselines (airframe, vehicle, weapons) and to control change across distributed subsystems.
  • Risk & Reliability Leadership - Experience applying FMEA, RCM, and MBSE techniques to anticipate and mitigate technical risks in high tempo, mission critical environments.
  • Advanced Modeling & Simulation - Knowledgeable with ANSYS, MATLAB/Simulink, and CATIA to validate designs, perform performance trades, and provide rapid feedback to engineering teams.
  • Software & Cyber Secure Systems - Understanding of embedded software development and RMF cybersecurity practices as they apply to avionics, vehicle control units, and weapon integration.
  • People & Talent Development - Demonstrated track record of recruiting, mentoring, and retaining high performing engineers; building career ladders, conducting performance reviews, and fostering a collaborative culture.
  • Strategic Communication - Ability to translate complex technical concepts into concise briefings for senior leadership, customers, and external partners; strong written and oral presentation skills.


Pay Information

GeoZone Definition: GeoZones are geographic groupings created by Lockheed Martin to align compensation ranges with regional labor markets and cost-of-labor differences across the United States. Locations are assigned a Geo Zone based on the primary work location of the role.
  • Full-time salary range (GEOZONE 1): $180000.00 - $325000.00
    • Includes metropolitan areas such as Sunnyvale CA; Pal Alto, CA; New York City metropolitan area; Newark, New Jersey; etc.
  • Full-time salary range (GEOZONE 2): $180000.00 - $325000.00
    • Includes metropolitan areas such as Denver, CO; King of Prussia, PA; Stratford, CT; Moorestown, NJ; etc.
  • Full-time salary range (GEOZONE 3): $180000.00 - $325000.00
    • Includes metropolitan areas such as Dallas-Fort Worth, TX; Orlando, FL; Grand Prairie, TX; Marietta, GA; etc.
  • Full-time salary range (GEOZONE 4): $180000.00 - $325000.00
    • Includes metropolitan areas such as Camden, AR; Lexington, KY; Lufkin, TX; etc.

The salary range for this position is as listed on the requisition. Please note that the salary information listed is a general guideline only.
Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market(work location) and business considerations when extending an offer.

Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible work arrangements and schedules (e.g., 4x10), 401(k) match, Paid time off, Holidays, Parental Leave, EAP, Flexible Spending Accounts, Education Assistance, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability.
  • Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be offered depending on the position. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and can vary from year to year and are tied to a range of performance metrics.
  • For (Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.

About Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin Corporation is a global security company that engages in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of advanced technology systems and products. It also provides a range of management, engineering, technical, scientific, logistic, and information services. The company operates in four business segments: Aeronautics, Electronic Systems, Information Systems and Global Services, and Space Systems. Lockheed Martin was formed in 1995 from the merger of Lockheed Corporation and Martin Marietta. In September 2008, Lockheed Martin Corporation acquired Aculight Corporation. In January 2009, it completed its acquisition of Universal Systems & Technology, Inc. (UNITECH). In August 2009, it completed its acquisition of Gyrocam Systems LLC (Gyrocam). Gyrocam develops and supplies gyrostabilized optical surveillance systems and sustainment field services, principally to the United States military. Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, a unit of the Company's Electronic Systems business area, would manage the Gyrocam business.

Lockheed Martin Careers

Joining Lockheed Martin provides more than just a job opportunity; it offers a platform to be part of a leading team dedicated to advancing global security and aerospace innovation. As a cornerstone of technological prowess, Lockheed Martin invites you to contribute to a legacy of impactful achievements in defense and technology.

Work You’ll Do

At Lockheed Martin, your role will extend beyond fulfilling job responsibilities to reshaping the future of aerospace and defense. Our team at Lockheed Martin is engaged in critical missions that protect citizens and advance the boundaries of science. From engineering to cybersecurity, the opportunities for professional growth are boundless.

Innovate and Lead

Step into a career at Lockheed Martin and you will be at the forefront of innovation and leadership. We empower our employees to lead projects that redefine industry standards and incorporate cutting-edge technology. Lockheed Martin is not just about thinking of the next big idea; it’s about making it a reality.

Professional Growth and Development

Lockheed Martin is committed to the professional growth of every team member. We offer unparalleled career advancement opportunities including professional development, leadership programs, and continuous learning through our Lockheed Martin University. Whether you are looking to advance your skills in engineering, project management, or AI, Lockheed Martin is equipped to take your career to the next level.

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe that diversity drives innovation. Lockheed Martin fosters an inclusive culture that embraces diversity in thoughts and experiences. Through diversity training and networking, we ensure that every employee can thrive. Our leadership is committed to building a diverse workforce where everyone is heard, respected, and valued.

Internship and Early Career Opportunities

Kickstart your career with Lockheed Martin’s internship programs. These opportunities allow you to apply your academic knowledge to real-world projects, gaining invaluable industry experience. Internships often lead to full-time positions, as we love to see young professionals grow into future leaders within our company.

Benefits and Culture

Lockheed Martin is renowned for its vibrant culture and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the various needs of our diverse team. From competitive salaries and health benefits to employee wellness programs and flexible working conditions, we ensure that our team is well taken care of, motivated, and healthy.

Join Our Team

Explore the numerous employment opportunities on our careers page. We are continuously hiring skilled professionals eager to make a difference. Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences, prepare for your interview, and join a team known for its commitment to excellence and innovation.

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Lockheed Martin: Your Future is Here

Whether you are a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, Lockheed Martin offers a range of positions and career paths that align with your ambitions and skills. Join us in our mission to solve complex challenges, advance scientific discovery, and deliver innovative solutions that make a difference.

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Learn more about Lockheed Martin
Size
114,000 employees
Market Cap
$126.1 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.8 billion
Founded
1995
5 Year Trend
+7.2%
Revenue
$65.3 billion
NASDAQ

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