Chief Engineer III

Chief Engineer III Location:

New Hudson, Michigan Salary range: $145-196k, no relocation package, 10-15% annual bonus Overview Our client, a leader in advanced defense innovation, is seeking a Chief Engineer III to support cutting-edge vehicle and system development programs. This role serves as a technical leader and specialty authority, driving execution across complex engineering programs while aligning solutions to customer needs and strategic objectives. This is a high-impact leadership role with responsibility for both project delivery and team development, ideal for someone with deep defense expertise and a strong systems mindset. Key Responsibilities Lead engineering execution across programs, ensuring quality, timing, technical accuracy, and profitability Serve as a technical authority in specialized defense systems (i.e., lethality and survivability technologies) Support business development efforts including opportunity evaluation, proposal development, and customer engagement Provide leadership and mentorship to engineering teams, including direct reports Oversee system architecture, design reviews, and product development lifecycle activities Collaborate cross-functionally to resolve engineering challenges and ensure successful test and validation outcomes Drive system-level thinking across vehicle platforms, including propulsion, energy, and integrated subsystems Identify and mitigate technical risks and ensure customer satisfaction throughout program execution Present technical strategies and solutions to internal leadership and external stakeholders Support resource planning, hiring efforts, and long-term capability development Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or related engineering discipline (required) 15+ years of experience in the defense industry Strong background in defense systems with emphasis on lethality and survivability technologies Experience managing or leading engineering teams in complex programs Deep understanding of defense contracts and program execution Proven experience in systems engineering, integration, and validation Ability to obtain or hold a U.S. security clearance Preferred Experience Expertise in areas such as weapon systems, fire control systems, combat vehicles, or battlefield systems Experience with full vehicle development including chassis, propulsion, and energy systems Background in testing, validation, and safety-critical systems Familiarity with hybrid/electrical architectures and modern vehicle platforms Experience working with lean product development tools and processes Work Environment & Travel Primarily onsite role due to nature of the work; occasional flexibility for remote work as needed Approximately 10-15% travel, primarily local customer engagement Compensation & Benefits Salary range: $145,000 - $196,000 Annual bonus potential: 10-15% No relocation assistance available #IND1 #ZR