Director, Aerospace & Defense Programs

Confidential; Central (IN); On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

Confidential in Indiana seeks a Director of Aerospace & Defense to define market strategy, build customer relationships, advance compliance readiness, and align operations to convert opportunities into scalable, compliant, and profitable programs.

This hands-on leader will build and grow an aerospace and defense business within an established machining organization serving demanding customers with high precision requirements.

Qualifications

• Experience leading aerospace/defense initiatives and programs.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks and compliance readiness.
• Proven ability to build new business segments and strategic customer portfolios.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a market-entry and growth roadmap for aerospace and defense.
• Identify and pursue opportunities with OEMs, primes, and tier suppliers; maintain a disciplined pipeline.
• Lead implementation of AS9100, ITAR/export-control, NADCAP readiness where applicable.
• Oversee full commercial lifecycle from engagement to contract negotiation and governance.
• Partner with Operations, Quality, and Engineering to satisfy customer specs and regulatory obligations.
• Design the organizational model for the aerospace and defense unit and recruit a cross-functional team.
• Represent the company at industry events to boost visibility and credibility.
• Provide data-driven recommendations on priorities, investments, and resource allocation.

Skills

Executive leadership

Business development

A&D supply chain

Regulatory compliance

Proposal development

Education

Engineering degree

Equivalent experience

Job description

Confidential in Indiana seeks a Director of Aerospace & Defense to define market strategy, build customer relationships, advance compliance readiness, and align operations to convert opportunities into scalable, compliant, and profitable programs.

This hands-on leader will build and grow an aerospace and defense business within an established machining organization serving demanding customers with high precision requirements.