Mission Control and Data Networks First Line Manager | KC-46 Mission Systems Avionics

Boeing; Tukwila (WA); On-site; USD 151,300 - 204,700; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plans

Flexible spending accounts

Job summary

A major aerospace company is looking for a Mission Control and Data Networks First Line Manager in Tukwila, WA. The successful candidate will lead engineering teams focused on avionics hardware, project management, and technical guidance in a dynamic aerospace environment. A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and at least 3 years in a relevant management role are required. Competitive salary and benefits are offered, along with opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field is required.
• 3+ years of experience in an engineering management role.
• Familiarity with FAA and military airworthiness certification.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Mission Control Systems and Data Networks team.
• Provide project management and technical guidance.
• Manage budgets and staffing forecasts.

Skills

Engineering management

Risk management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor of Science in Engineering or related field

Tools

Avionics systems

Data networks hardware

Job description

Mission Control and Data Networks First Line Manager | KC-46 Mission Systems Avionics

Join to apply for the Mission Control and Data Networks First Line Manager role at Boeing.

At Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make the world a better place. We’re committed to fostering an environment for every teammate that’s welcoming, respectful and inclusive, with great opportunity for professional growth. Find your future with us.

The Boeing KC-46 Tanker Program is seeking a highly motivated, dynamic, and inclusive Mission Control and Data Networks First Line Manager to lead the Mission Control Systems (MCS) and Military/Tactical Data Networks (MDN/TDN) Systems team from either Tukwila, WA or Everett, WA. In this role you will be responsible for the engineering management of an integrated military and tactical aircraft computer data network subsystem suite of electronics hardware, as well as the aircraft radar warning and countermeasures self-defensive systems. Leadership responsibilities will include management of the engineering team responsible for all aspects of the avionics hardware, including the design/architecture, integration, lab/aircraft testing, airworthiness certification, new business proposals, and supplier technical management. You will also manage the financial labor and material budgets as the Control Account Manager (CAM) for the team.

The Boeing KC-46 “Pegasus” is the new US Air Force aerial refueling tanker aircraft designed to support multi‑role missions including refueling, cargo/passenger transport, and medevac airlift. The KC-46 is a military commercial derivative aircraft based on the Boeing 767‑2C aircraft and modified per US Air Force specifications for the primary mission of aerial refueling US and Allied aircraft. The KC-46 accomplishes this refueling mission using either the Hose & Drogue or the Boom systems which are capable of transferring fuel at rates of 400 or 1,200 gallons per minute, respectively. The KC-46 is also equipped with a suite of tactical situational awareness systems and self‑defensive systems that allow the aircraft to provide closer support to combat aircraft when performing missions.

Position Responsibilities

• This position will report to the KC-46 Mission Systems Avionics (MSA) Senior Manager and will represent the MCS and MDN/TDN Systems team for the KC-46 Tanker Program.
• Provide leadership, project management, and technical guidance to the engineering teams responsible for the system design/architecture, airworthiness certification, technical supplier management, production & fleet sustainment support, and RCCA investigations.
• Control Account Manager (CAM) for the team; responsible for ensuring up to date staffing forecasts, proper employee charging, and that costs and schedules remain on plan.
• Promote an inclusive team culture.
• Champion employee performance and career development.
• Support international customer campaigns and new business development proposals.

This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at one of the listed location options.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience)

• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement.
• 3+ years of experience in an engineering management or lead role.
• Familiarity with Risk, Issue, and Opportunity (RIO) management.
• Experience with FAA and/or Military airworthiness certification.
• Experience with avionics, computing, and/or data networks hardware.
• Technical subcontractor supplier management.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience)

• Knowledge and understanding of the Equipment Manager role and responsibilities.
• Familiarity with Earned Value Management (EVM).
• Knowledge and experience with Root Cause and Corrective Action (RCCA) processes and implementing corrective actions.
• Knowledge and experience with avionics lab, ground, and flight qualification and/or certification testing.
• Knowledge and experience with military datalinks (e.g. Link 16, JREAP, etc.).
• Knowledge and experience with Radio Frequency (RF) engineering design and applications.
• Have or have held an active U.S. Security Clearance in the last 24 months.

Drug Free Workplace: Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Pay & Benefits: At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities are included. Eligible employees have access to health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance, and paid and unpaid time away from work. Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Summary pay range: $151,300 - $204,700. Applications for this position will be accepted until Jan. 02, 2026.

Export Control Requirements: This position must meet export control compliance requirements. To meet export control compliance requirements, a “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required. “U.S. Person” includes U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Education: Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent Required.

Relocation: This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Security Clearance: This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.

Visa Sponsorship: Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Shift: This position is for 1st shift.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.