A Director of Research and Development is responsible for overseeing their organization's research and development department(s). Responsible for ensuring that the organization meet their objectives for researching and developing new products or technologies and improve existing products.
We are seeking an experienced and driven Director of R&D to lead the research and development efforts of our firearms product portfolio. This leadership role will be responsible for building and guiding a high-performing R&D team based in Fort Smith, AR, with full accountability for the design, testing, and launch of innovative firearm systems. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in product design and development, project management, and proven leadership abilities, with a demonstrated history of taking products from concept through to production. This position is critical to driving our strategic growth through technological innovation and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and develop the Fort Smith-based R&D team, including recruiting and developing top engineering talent and fostering a collaborative, innovative culture. Oversee the design, development, and testing of new firearms and related technologies, ensuring products meet safety, performance, and regulatory requirements. Provide technical leadership and vision to guide the development of next-generation firearms platforms. Manage multiple concurrent R&D projects using proven project management methodologies to meet schedule, cost, and performance targets. Collaborate with Product Management, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to ensure smooth product launches. Establish and maintain test protocols and performance validation standards for new designs. Maintain awareness of industry trends, competitive products, and emerging technologies. Drive a continuous improvement mindset within the R&D team, focusing on innovation, efficiency, and product excellence. Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and international regulations related to firearms development and testing. Lead the development and maintenance of drawing control processes.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Advanced technical degree or MBA is a plus. 10+ years of progressive experience in product design and development. Proven track record of successfully leading design and R&D teams, with strong people management and leadership skills. Ability to develop a deep understanding of firearms systems, ballistics, materials, manufacturing processes, and regulatory standards (e.g., ATF, ITAR). Strong experience in project management tools and techniques; PMP certification and SolidWorks PDM experience is a plus. Demonstrated ability to bring new products to market from concept through full-scale production. Exceptional communication, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Experience in 3-D CAD design, focusing on SolidWorks, and other engineering analysis software. Experience in
ANSI-Y-14.5
drawing terms and tolerances. Experience in DFM in a Lean environment.
Additional Qualifications:
A solid leadership style based on the development and support of those you lead. A passion for metric driven results. A team focused approach to design and development which leverages feedback and input across the organization. Excellent interpersonal skills providing clear communication at all levels. Exceptional product life cycle management skills. Proven success of project management through documentation and KPIs. An ability to prioritize and pivot based on internal and external customer demands. Strong ethics, integrity and leadership qualities that inspire trust and confidence from all levels. An established history of mentoring, motivating and developing individuals. A Cultural fit built around engagement, empowerment and servant leadership.
