Advanced Manufacturing & Mission Realization Lead; R&D Engineer

Position: Advanced Manufacturing & Mission Realization Lead (R&D Engineer 3/4)
** What You Will Do*
* ** This position is open for external candidates only to apply.*
* ** This position will be filled at either the R&D 3 or 4 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate.  Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.*
* ** R&D Engineer 3 ($128,000 - $215,900)*
* You will play an integral leadership role as part of a multidisciplinary team, facilitating transformation of innovative concepts into tangible, mission-ready solutions for national security applications. As part of the Mission Concepts (E-2) group, you will operate in advanced manufacturing, systems engineering, and rapid prototyping, helping accelerate ideas from early-stage concepts through proof-of-concept and beyond.

** R&D Engineer 4 ($153,600 - $266,500)*
* In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, you will have experience leading large multidisciplinary teams and be able to communicate technical updates with senior leadership/external stakeholders. Additionally, proficiency in project management tools (e.g., Primavera, MS Project) and a record of authoring complex technical documents will set you apart..

** What You Need*
* ** Minimum

Job Requirements:

*
* + Demonstrated experience with complex R&D projects from concept to execution, especially in advanced manufacturing, systems engineering, or rapid prototyping.

+   Experience working with large technical teams (engineers, scientists, technologists, technicians) to deliver mission-focused solutions.

+   Familiarity with project management tools for planning, resourcing, and executing work packages.

+   Strong technical writing skills for authoring work planning and control documentation, with attention to operational and safety requirements.

+   Ability to operate effectively in integrated R&D and operations environments, balancing agility with rigor.

+   Excellent collaboration skills, including working under technical direction, partnering with peers and mentoring early-career engineers.

+   Effective communication skills for delivering technical briefings and updates.

+   Expertise in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering disciplines, guiding design, fabrication, and system integration.

+   

Experience with agile and additive manufacturing, including work with novel materials and processes.

** Additional

Job Requirements for the R&D Engineer 4*
* + Demonstrated experience leading complex R&D projects from concept to execution, especially in advanced manufacturing, systems engineering, or rapid prototyping.

+   Proven experience leading large technical teams (engineers, scientists, technologists, technicians) to deliver mission-focused solutions.

+   Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., Primavera, MS Project) for planning, resourcing, and executing work packages.

+   Effective communication skills for delivering technical briefings to senior leadership and external stakeholders.

+ Strong track record of innovation, publications, or technical contributions.

** Education/Experience at lower level** :
Position requires a Master's Degree in Engineering from an accredited institution and 6 years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

** Education/Experience at higher level** :
Master's degree in engineering and 12 years of related experience; or equivalent combination. At this level a Ph.D. may be preferred.

** Desired

Qualifications:

*
* + Strong background or demonstrated interest in robotics integration, including hands-on implementation, troubleshooting, and system optimization.

+  Experience supporting or driving digital transformation efforts, modernizing workflows, introducing automation, or improving data/process efficiency.

+  Familiarity with metrology, precision measurement systems, instrumentation, or related quality-assurance practices.

+  A proactive, execution-focused mindset, someone who is driven to get things done, can work independently, removes roadblocks, and delivers results reliably.

+  Ability to work across interdisciplinary teams (engineering, operations, research) and…