A4 Non-Kinetic Warfare Branch Chief Engineer

Do you thrive on guiding complex, multidisciplinary efforts from concept to fieldable capability?

Are you passionate about aligning engineering execution with long‑term strategic vision?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

The A4 Non‑Kinetic Warfare Branch is seeking a forward‑thinking, innovative technical leader to serve as Branch Chief Engineer. The successful candidate will be a highly respected member of the DOW community with demonstrated technical depth, systems engineering rigor, and the ability to lead complex, high‑impact engineering efforts. This individual will be instrumental in strengthening the Branch’s technical excellence, advancing strategic core competencies, and mentoring high‑performing staff to develop and deliver innovative, mission‑relevant capabilities aligned with AMDS strategic intent.

• Establish and uphold engineering standards, technical quality, and systems integration discipline across the Branch.
• Maintain awareness of state‑of‑the‑art developments in relevant technical domains and ensure their appropriate integration into Branch competencies.
• Lead by example in applying sound engineering principles to complex, multidisciplinary challenges.
• Partner closely with the A4 Chief Scientist to mature and transition S&T concepts into robust, fieldable systems aligned with AMDS strategy.

• Advise Branch and Group Supervisors on complex technical and programmatic engineering matters.
• Provide expert insight into design decisions, risk mitigation, and integration challenges.
• Lead or contribute to technical reviews and quality assessments across the Branch.
• Serve as a central engineering resource for technical leaders in the Branch.
• Strengthen cross‑Branch and cross‑Sector technical collaboration to enable execution of APL and AMDS strategic objectives.
• Lead and make direct technical contributions to critical, high‑visibility programs.
• Identify and develop new core engineering competencies in emerging mission‑critical technologies.

• Contribute to the development and refinement of Branch strategic priorities.
• Ensure engineering execution aligns with AMDS strategic intent and focus areas.
• Maintain visibility into technical progress across programs and ensure appropriate rigor, pace, and risk management.

• Initiate and support novel engineering concepts and technical studies.
• Contribute to white papers and proposals to secure internal and external funding.
• Mentor and develop engineering staff, strengthening technical depth and leadership across the Branch.

• Work closely with Program Managers and other Branches to develop collaboration opportunities and new programs.
• Support development of strong technical relationships with sponsors and partners.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you

• Possess a M.S. or higher in Engineering or related technical field.
• Have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience.
• Possess relevant experience in at least two of the following areas:
  • Electronic Warfare
  • Directed Energy
  • Cyber Warfare
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Autonomy
  • Advanced Communication Systems and Networks
  • Engagement Coordination and Engagement Control
  • Signal Processing
• Have demonstrated success leading complex engineering efforts and high‑visibility programs.
• Have proven ability to build and lead multidisciplinary teams and integrate complex systems.
• Demonstrated technical depth and breadth with effective leadership skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Peer‑reviewed…