Chief Engineer

SAIC; Hampton; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent defense contractor seeks a Chief Engineer to lead technical execution for the Air Operations Center Weapon System program known as Falconer. This role demands expertise in systems engineering and a proven track record in complex DoD programs. Responsibilities include overseeing engineering teams, driving innovation, and ensuring compliance with DoD standards. The ideal candidate will have 10-15 years of experience, a relevant bachelor’s degree, and must hold an active Secret clearance. This position is crucial for the modernization and sustainment of critical military capabilities.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• 10-15 years of experience in systems engineering or technical leadership roles focusing on complex DoD programs.
• Proven expertise in designing and deploying large-scale systems.
• Deep knowledge of Air Force AOC weapon systems and operational requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical execution and oversight for the Falconer system program.
• Guide innovation in systems utilizing AI, ML, and DevSecOps.
• Oversee engineering teams and communicate with stakeholders.

Skills

Systems Engineering

Software Development

Integration

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field

Tools

Agile/DevSecOps

Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)

Job description

Description

SAIC is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Chief Engineer to lead the technical execution and oversight for the Air Operations Center (AOC) Weapon System program, commonly known as Falconer. This role requires a visionary technical leader who possesses deep expertise in systems engineering, software development, integration, and lifecycle management of advanced U.S. Air Force Command and Control (C2) systems.

As the Chief Engineer, you will play a critical role in ensuring the successful modernization, sustainment, and operational relevance of the Falconer weapon system to meet current and emerging mission requirements.

The selected candidate will be responsible for driving innovation and technical direction, overseeing engineering teams, and aligning engineering efforts to program goals and objectives. The Chief Engineer will provide expert guidance to stakeholders, resolve technical challenges, and ensure compliance with Department of Defense (DoD) standards, policies, and regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Technical Leadership
  • Serve as the technical authority and subject matter expert (SME) for the AOC Falconer weapon system program.
  • Define and execute the program's technical vision and strategy to support mission-critical requirements.
  • Lead the architecture, design, and implementation of engineering solutions to modernize and sustain the Falconer system within budget, schedule, and performance constraints.
• Systems Engineering and Integration
  • Oversee the design, development, integration, testing, and delivery of complex C2 systems, including hardware, software, and network infrastructure.
  • Develop and maintain the system architecture, ensuring alignment with program requirements, DoD policies, and industry best practices.
  • Manage system interfaces, configurations, and interoperability with other DoD systems, including Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) systems.
• Innovation and Modernization Efforts
  • Guide efforts to incorporate emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), advanced data analytics, cloud-based services, and DevSecOps practices to enhance the Falconer weapon system's capabilities.
  • Drive integration of cybersecurity into all engineering processes to ensure the weapon system meets DoD cybersecurity standards and is resilient to threats.
• Team Leadership and Mentorship
  • Lead and mentor multi-disciplinary engineering teams, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation.
  • Work closely with program management, functional teams, and subcontractor partners to ensure engineering efforts align with overall program objectives.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Communication
  • Collaborate with U.S. Air Force clients, program managers, and cross-functional teams to drive solutions that meet operational mission requirements.
  • Provide regular technical briefings, reports, and presentations to senior leadership, government stakeholders, and program teams.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for technical risk identification, mitigation strategies, and trade-off analysis.
• Lifecycle Management and Sustainment
  • Ensure successful transition of the Falconer weapon system through all phases of the program lifecycle, from development to sustainment.
  • Develop strategies to optimize system performance, reduce lifecycle costs, and meet evolving operational demands.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field. Advanced degree preferred.
• 10-15 years of progressive experience in systems engineering, software development, or technical leadership roles, with a focus on complex DoD programs or C2 systems.
• Proven expertise in designing, integrating, and deploying large-scale systems, including hardware, software, and network components.
• Deep knowledge of Air Force AOC weapon systems and their operational requirements, objectives, and challenges.

Technical Expertise

• Experience in system architecture design, integration, and lifecycle engineering for DoD weapon systems.
• Experience with cloud architectures, hybrid deployment models, and modernization efforts for legacy systems.
• Proficiency in using tools and methodologies such as Agile/DevSecOps, Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), and Configuration/Data Management.
• Strong understanding of security frameworks such as Risk Management Framework (RMF) and cybersecurity standards (e.g., NIST, CMMC).

Leadership and Communication

• Demonstrated ability to lead diverse technical teams, including government, contractor, and subcontractor personnel.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging with senior military and civilian leaders.
• A track record of solving complex technical challenges, making trade-off decisions, and balancing competing priorities in high-stakes environments.

Clearance Requirements

• Active Secret clearance required; Top Secret/SCI eligibility preferred.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with the modernization and sustainment of the AOC Falconer weapon system.
• Familiarity with USAF Agile Development Operations (Kessel Run) processes and methodologies.
• Knowledge of Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) initiatives and architectures.
• Certifications such as INCOSE CSEP, DoD 8570 IAM Level III, or cloud-related certifications (e.g., AWS Solutions Architect).