Functional Engineering Manager

JMJ PHILLIP; Auburn Hills (MI); Remote; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as an Engineering Functional Manager, where you will lead a dynamic team of engineers in a rapidly growing division focused on defense systems. This remote position offers the chance to shape engineering capabilities and influence strategic planning while engaging with cutting-edge technologies. You'll be at the forefront of developing innovative solutions that contribute to national defense initiatives. With competitive compensation and opportunities for career growth, this role is perfect for experienced professionals ready to make a significant impact in a respected organization.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Performance-based career growth

Engagement with cutting-edge technologies

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
• Strong knowledge of systems engineering and product lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Lead a geographically dispersed team of engineers across various disciplines.
• Ensure compliance with company standards and promote continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Systems Engineering

Project Management

Team Development

Process Improvement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Master's degree in Engineering or MBA

Tools

Project Management Software

Engineering Design Tools

Job description

We are seeking A dynamic, multi-discipline Engineering Functional Manager to join our client's rapidly growing Land Systems division. This leadership opportunity is ideal for an experienced engineering professional with a background in weapon systems engineering design and production support, ready to take on a pivotal role in shaping the future of engineering capabilities.

As the Engineering Functional Manager, you will be responsible for leading a geographically dispersed team of approximately 20 engineers across various disciplines, including systems, integration and test, mechanical, electrical, and software. This role requires collaboration with program management, the division’s chief engineer, human resources, and other engineering functional leaders across multiple divisions.

This position is currently remote (home office-based), but domestic and occasional international travel is required. Relocation may be required once the future engineering facility location is finalized.

Position Responsibilities

Functional Leadership

• Provide strategic and operational management of a cross-functional engineering team.
• Assign team members to projects based on skills and business priorities.
• Recruit engineering talent in alignment with program and organizational growth.
  

Team Development & Performance

• Offer coaching, mentorship, and leadership to ensure successful task execution and team growth.
• Conduct performance reviews, manage professional development plans, and oversee compensation processes.
• Develop and implement engineering training strategies that support both team and individual growth.
  

Process & Quality Oversight

• Ensure engineering team compliance with company standards, procedures, and best practices.
• Recommend updates to processes, forms, and templates to promote continuous improvement and efficiency.
  

Program & Proposal Support

• Contribute to cost estimation efforts including proposal development, IRAD planning, capital requests, and overhead budgeting.
• Ensure accountability for the accuracy of technical, cost, and schedule commitments.
• Assist with the identification and mitigation of technical risks within relevant disciplines.
  

Strategic & Cross-Division Planning

• Collaborate with leadership on long-term planning for engineering capabilities, staffing, labs, and facility development.
• Contribute to engineering input for the technology roadmap.
• Support broader engineering staffing and capability planning efforts across divisions.
  

Prerequisites

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field (required)
• Proven experience leading and managing multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
• Strong knowledge of systems engineering, product lifecycle, and production support.
• Background in defense or weapons systems engineering strongly preferred.
• Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
  

Certifications (Preferred, but Not Required)

• Eligibility for a U.S. security clearance (active clearance preferred)
• Master’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration (MBA), or a related field.
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP) – INCOSE

What the Role Offers

• An opportunity to lead a high-impact, rapidly growing engineering organization within a globally respected defense company.
• Competitive compensation, benefits, and performance-based career growth.
• Influence over the development of engineering infrastructure, tools, and strategic capability planning.
• Engagement with cutting-edge technologies and the chance to contribute to national and global defense initiatives.
  

Why Auburn Hills?

Although the final location of the engineering facility is still being determined, Auburn Hills is a leading candidate due to its strategic advantages. The area offers access to a highly skilled engineering workforce and is home to several renowned universities and research institutions. Its proximity to key automotive and defense industry players enhances opportunities for innovation, partnerships, and streamlined logistics. Auburn Hills also features a high quality of life with affordable housing, modern infrastructure, and a vibrant community—making it an ideal location for professionals and their families.