Chief Engineer, Automation Evolution

MITRE; McLean (VA); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

MITRE is seeking a Chief Engineer for Automation Evolution to lead technical execution in transportation-focused programs, particularly for the FAA. This hybrid role involves overseeing engineering excellence, mentoring staff, and staying updated on emerging technologies. Candidates should have extensive experience in FAA automation systems and strong leadership skills.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience with Bachelor's, 10 years with Master's, or 7 years with PhD.
• Extensive experience with FAA automation systems.
• Strong leadership in large-scale systems engineering.

Responsibilities

• Oversee technical execution across FAA programs.
• Lead system evolution strategies for cloud-enabled architectures.
• Mentor engineering staff and engage with stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Systems Engineering

Cloud Architectures

Agile Methodologies

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

PhD

Job description

Join to apply for the Chief Engineer, Automation Evolution role at MITRE.

This position is based in the Transportation Automation Evolution department, focusing on leading technical execution and innovation in transportation-focused programs, particularly supporting the FAA’s transformation of the National Airspace System.

Roles and Responsibilities:

1. Oversee technical execution across FAA programs, ensuring engineering excellence and mission alignment.
2. Lead system evolution strategies, transitioning legacy systems to modern, cloud-enabled architectures.
3. Establish and enforce systems engineering and quality assurance best practices.
4. Assess the impact of technology decisions on operational outcomes.
5. Mentor and develop engineering staff, fostering innovation and critical thinking.
6. Engage with stakeholders to align on system modernization and technology choices.
7. Ensure cross-program technical consistency and identify reuse opportunities.
8. Stay abreast of emerging technologies like AI/ML, digital engineering, and edge computing, evaluating their applicability to FAA missions.

Basic Requirements:

• Minimum of 12 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree, or 10 years with a Master's, or 7 years with a PhD.
• Extensive engineering experience with FAA automation or decision support systems (e.g., TFMS, TBFM, TFDM, ERAM, STARS, SWIM).
• Proven leadership in large-scale systems engineering efforts.
• Deep understanding of cloud architectures and microservices in safety-critical systems.
• Experience with Agile methodologies in engineering teams.
• Strong communication skills for technical and executive audiences.
• Position requires at least 50% hybrid on-site work.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or related fields.
• Knowledge of air traffic management principles and stakeholder communities.

Clearance: Suitability clearance for FAA; no additional clearance required within one year of hire.

Work Location: Hybrid.

MITRE promotes non-discrimination and offers accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Benefits information is available on their website.