Job Title: Program Chief Engineer

Location: Herndon, VA (20171)

Salary Range: $200,000 - $250,000 / year

About the Role

We are seeking a Program Chief Engineer to provide technical leadership across a rapidly growing portfolio of laser systems, LIDAR sensors, and laser communication technologies. You will be the ultimate technical authority for major program decisions, guiding the delivery of first-of-their-kind systems for operational airborne and space missions.

Upcoming Program Opportunities Include:

• Space LADAR: 2-year development and delivery of compact space situational awareness instruments.
• Earth-Sensing LIDAR: 2-year development of laser and beam control subsystems for NASA spaceflight.
• Space LADAR AI&T: Lead 2-year Assembly, Integration, and Test for a proven transceiver design.
• Fiber Lasers: Multiple amplifier programs for space and airborne systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive Technical Success: Lead the development and delivery of critical laser-based systems for defense and space exploration.
• Ensure Compliance: Oversee verification of all technical performance, environmental, and functional requirements.
• Customer Facing: Serve as the primary technical point of contact for customers and mission partners.
• Lead & Mentor: Guide a highly talented team of scientists and engineers across disciplines (laser physics, electro-optics, systems engineering, signal processing).
• Decision Making: Direct major architectural trades, anomaly resolutions, and system verification methods.
• Milestone Reviews: Prepare and guide teams through PDR, CDR, TRR, and DAR reviews.
• Process Improvement: Champion engineering tools and best practices for smooth transitions from development to predictable manufacturing.

Requirements

• Education: Master’s or Ph.D. in a relevant engineering or applied-science field.
• Experience: 10+ years of professional experience, including a track record of leading large, diverse technical teams.
• Industry Knowledge: Proven experience engineering, qualifying, and delivering electro-optical systems for US space and/or military applications.
• Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge in laser systems, LIDAR, optical communications, optical systems engineering, or aerospace/defense system qualification.
• Tools: Familiarity with industry-standard engineering tools (e.g., requirements tracking, MBSE, circuit simulation, thermal/structural analysis, optical design).
• Communication: Exceptional ability to clearly present innovative technical solutions and maturation plans.
• Clearance: US Citizenship and eligibility to obtain a US Security Clearance is required.

Benefits & Perks We offer a comprehensive and incentivized compensation package within a creative, relaxed, and progressive learning environment.

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, FSA, and HSA options.
• Financial: 401(k) with company match (immediate vesting), life insurance, AD&D, and disability coverage.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous PTO, paid holidays, and flexible schedules (including a 9/8/80 alternate workweek option).
• Growth: Education assistance and Employee Assistance Program.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and experience without regard to protected characteristics or discrimination of any kind.