Head of Precision Product Engineering - Defense Tech

gpac; Moline (IL); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

gpac is seeking a Director of Product Engineering in Illinois to lead the product engineering function for precision CNC manufacturing, driving strategy, R&D initiatives, and compliant delivery of firearms components.

You will mentor and direct a cross-functional team, partner with Operations, Quality, and Marketing to execute the technical roadmap, manage budgets, and ensure on-time, high-quality products that meet regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in engineering, with at least 5 years in leadership or management within precision CNC manufacturing.
• Proven track record leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time and at high quality.
• Ability to mentor and inspire high-performing teams, and translate market needs into technical solutions.
• Knowledge of budgeting, resource allocation, and project management best practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor engineering staff to drive performance and professional growth.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to define and execute the technical strategy and long-term engineering roadmap.
• Oversee full lifecycle of engineering projects to ensure on-time, on-budget execution.
• Identify and mitigate technical risks to ensure high-quality, compliant product delivery.
• Track and report team performance, KPIs, resource utilization, and project milestones.
• Manage departmental budgets and allocate resources effectively.
• Maintain compliance with industry regulations and certifications (ITAR, ISO).
• Communicate project status, risks, and opportunities to executive leadership.
• Develop relationships with external partners and vendors to support delivery.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic thinking

Mentoring

Budgeting

Project management

Product design

Regulatory understanding

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or industrial engineering

Job description

gpac is seeking a Director of Product Engineering in Illinois to lead the product engineering function for precision CNC manufacturing, driving strategy, R&D initiatives, and compliant delivery of firearms components.

You will mentor and direct a cross-functional team, partner with Operations, Quality, and Marketing to execute the technical roadmap, manage budgets, and ensure on-time, high-quality products that meet regulatory requirements.