Deputy Chief Engineer

JRC Integrated Systems; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense contractor in Washington DC is seeking an experienced Deputy Chief Engineer to lead engineering efforts in a premier missile system program. This full-time role requires a Bachelor's degree in engineering and 15+ years of defense system engineering experience, including at least 5 years in a technical leadership capacity. The successful candidate will oversee system integration, lead technical execution, and ensure compliance with defense engineering policies, playing a crucial role in ensuring mission success.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in defense system engineering.
• 5 years in a technical leadership role on a Major Defense Acquisition Program.
• Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.

Responsibilities

• Lead the technical execution of system design and integration.
• Serve as principal technical advisor to the Chief Engineer.
• Chair Engineering Review Boards and Configuration Control Boards.

Skills

Defense system engineering

Technical leadership

Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)

Communication skills

Systems integration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Tools

Cameo

DOORS

Teamcenter

Job description

Who We Are

At JRC, we tackle some of the toughest challenges faced by the Department of Defense (DoD) and other government agencies. Our expertise in engineering innovation and semiconductor technologies allows us to deliver mission‑critical microelectronics solutions, aerospace systems engineering, and cutting‑edge research and development. By joining JRC, you’ll be part of a team that supports strategic deterrence and defense missions, playing a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the United States and its allies.

Join JRC’s Missiles and Space Team as Deputy Chief Engineer

We’re seeking a highly skilled and motivated Deputy Chief Engineer to play a pivotal role in one of the DoD’s premier missile system programs—a Category 1D Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP). As the Deputy Chief Engineer, you’ll lead the technical execution of system design, integration, testing, and digital engineering efforts. Your leadership will be critical in ensuring the system meets mission, safety, and performance standards, while maintaining full compliance with DoDI 5000.88 and related engineering policies.

What You’ll Do

• Serve as principal technical advisor to the Chief Engineer and Program Manager on all system engineering and architecture matters.
• Lead system‐of‐systems integration across propulsion, guidance, control, fire control, and launch subsystems.
• Oversee Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), digital thread/twin management, and configuration control.
• Ensure design integrity through requirements traceability, verification, and validation processes.
• Chair Engineering Review Boards (ERB), Technical Risk Management Boards (TRMB), and Configuration Control Boards (CCB).
• Develop and maintain the Systems Engineering Plan (SEP), Mission Assurance Plan, and Test and Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP) inputs.
• Identify and mitigate technical risks across the system development lifecycle.
• Ensure technical rigor, compliance, and readiness for major technical reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, FRR).
• Advise on acquisition strategy, cost/schedule/technical trade‑offs, and milestone documentation.
• Mentor multidisciplinary government and contractor engineering teams to promote technical excellence and mission assurance.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, Systems, or related discipline).
• 15+ years of experience in defense system engineering with 5 years in a technical leadership role on an MDAP.
• Top Secret (Active or Recently Adjudicated) with SCI Eligibility (required).
• Extensive knowledge of DoD 5000‑series acquisition policies, including DoDI 5000.88 and 5000.02.
• Demonstrated experience in missile systems design, integration, and verification.
• Proficiency in MBSE, digital engineering, and model‑based data environments (Cameo, DOORS, Teamcenter).
• Strong communication skills and ability to interface with OSD, Service PEOs, and FFRDC stakeholders.
• Ability to travel up to 25%.

Bonus Points for…

• Master’s degree in systems engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
• DAWIA Advanced Certification in engineering or program management.
• INCOSE CSEP/ESEP certification.
• Experience supporting nuclear‑capable or strategic missile programs.
• Familiarity with DoDI 8510.01 (RMF), MIL‑STD‑882E (System Safety), and mission assurance processes.

Seniority Level

• Executive

Employment Type

• Full‑time

Job Function

• Engineering and Information Technology

Industries

• Defense and Space Manufacturing

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