Lead Engineer

Are you an experienced engineer ready to lead complex aerospace and defense programs? Join Raytheon-Rafael Area Protection Systems (R2S) and help support one of the world's most advanced air defense systems. R2S is a U.S.-based joint venture between Raytheon and Rafael that supports the production and sustainment of the Iron Dome Area Protection System.

As our organization expands from component procurement to full build-to-print production, we're looking for a technical leader who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative manufacturing environment. If you're passionate about engineering leadership, solving complex technical challenges, and delivering mission-critical products, we'd love to hear from you.

Position Summary

The Lead Engineer will provide technical leadership for a team supporting the production of mechanical, electro-mechanical, electrical subassemblies, and All-Up-Round (AUR) assemblies for the Iron Dome system. Working cross-functionally with Program Management, Quality, Supply Chain, Finance, and Operations, you will drive technical execution, production readiness, and continuous improvement while ensuring products are delivered on schedule and in compliance with customer and regulatory requirements.

U.S. Citizenship is required. This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance (or higher).

What You'll Do

Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary engineering team supporting production operations. Partner with Program Management and the Chief Engineer to develop and execute project schedules, budgets, and resource plans. Provide technical direction and lead engineering peer reviews. Serve as the primary engineering point of contact for internal and external stakeholders.

Drive technical issues to resolution while communicating status to leadership. Identify and manage program risks and opportunities. Support proposal development, Basis of Estimate (BOE) preparation, and future program planning. Evaluate Engineering Change Notices (ECNs) for cost, schedule, and technical impacts. Review and release Technical Data Packages (TDPs) through Engineering Review Boards (ERBs) and Configuration Control Boards (CCBs).

Serve as delegate chair for Configuration Control Boards and Engineering Review Boards. Develop and present technical briefings to customers, including international engineering teams. Support program reviews, staffing forecasts, Earned Value Management (EVM), Estimate at Completion (EAC) reviews, proposal costing, and monthly performance metrics.

Travel to supplier and production facilities to evaluate manufacturing processes, tooling, production readiness, inventory management, and factory layouts. Support Quality Engineering with AS9102 First Article Inspection reviews. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience.

Minimum 10 years of engineering experience within the aerospace or defense industry. Experience supporting manufacturing and production engineering environments. Strong understanding of configuration management principles. Demonstrated leadership and project coordination experience. Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills.

Experience presenting technical information to leadership and customers. Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint). U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

Proposal development and Basis of Estimate (BOE) experience. Experience collaborating with international aerospace and defense partners. Build-to-print manufacturing experience. Manufacturing engineering experience, including lean manufacturing and production planning. Working knowledge of Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) and ERP systems.

Experience with machining, mechanical assembly, electro-mechanical assembly, CCA fabrication, and energetics manufacturing. Strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T). Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification. Experience working effectively with all levels of leadership. Work Location Remote or Hybrid within Southwest, AR (Preferred) Travel Approximately 25% domestic travel Occasional international travel Benefits We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, career growth, and work-life balance, including: Competitive salary 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off) Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with company match Paid time off Flexible work arrangements Parental leave Professional development opportunities Employee recognition and achievement awards Join Our Team At R2S, you'll have the opportunity to lead talented engineers, solve complex technical challenges, and contribute to technologies that help protect lives around the world.

If you're ready to make an impact while advancing your career, we encourage you to apply. We are an Equal Opportunity. We consider applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or membership in any other group protected by federal, state, or local law.