Test Engineering Manager jobs in Bakersfield, CA

Our Client has a storied history of bringing proof of concept, experimental, and prototype flight test programs into reality. This is done through a series of deliberate choices in the way we operate. Namely our staff has a wide breadth of knowledge in varying topics allowing them to work on multiple facets of programs. This staff requires a highly dynamic environment that can adapt to the tasks and staffing needs at hand. This is a dual-role manager position, involving balancing both the overall Functional oversight as well as performing direct work on a program(s)/proposal(s). The candidate will spend 50% of their time on support of the organization and the remainder of their time on direct program technical work. The Engineering Manager is the person responsible for maintaining this staffing and further skill development within the engineering group. The engineering manager will lead and supervise the engineering team as they develop, test, modify, and create milestone demonstrator aircraft and other aerospace products. Manage engineering staff and equipment resources. Perform as a deputy to the Director of Engineering.

The Engineering Manager relies on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. They must establish and maintain effective relationships with colleagues and handle confidential information appropriately. A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected with opportunities for advancement. Position reports to the Director of Engineering.

Summary: 

Founded by a legendary aircraft designer, Our Client is a 41-year-old aerospace company continually working to push boundaries, prove out ideas, and influence the future. We are a rapid prototyping and manufacturing facility, designing, building, and testing proof-of-concept and prototype vehicles. We have flown an average of one new aircraft type per year over our 41-year history such as Proteus, GlobalFlyer, SpaceShipOne, Model 401, and Stratolaunch.

Category: Engineering

Location: Mojave, CA

Citizenship Required: United States Citizenship

Clearance Type: Secret

Schedule: 9/80 Work Schedule

Relocation Assistance: Relocation assistance may be available

Benefits: 100% Paid Benefits and 401k Matching 

Duties and Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Train, mentor and develop engineers in their careers
• Make staffing assignments based on the skillsets and program needs
• Write Project Engineer performance reviews and oversee reviews for the remainder of the staff
• Resolve personnel issues
• Making hiring and termination decisions as well as managing the performance of engineers
• Make engineering staff compensation decisions
• Direct and coordinate engineering department communications, meetings and initiatives
• Discuss and lay out project plans with teams
• Review and approve engineering work of project teams
• Support the preparation of budgets, bids and contracts
• Identification and skill maintenance of Subject Matter Experts (SME’s) within the engineering team
• Identification and closure of any skillset gaps within engineering team
• Support facility and logistical planning and coordination between programs
• Ensure administrative policies, procedures and standards are met
• Improve design, manufacturing and test processes, as well as advance research
• Confers with Director of Engineering and Senior Management to manage the engineering department and help influence company level strategic decisions

Requirements for candidacy include, but are not limited to the following:

• Proven leadership skills to coach, mentor and motivate technical professionals
• Knowledge of multiple engineering disciplines, as well as typical design, manufacturing and test practices
• Knowledge of standard business practices
• Understanding and support of the company's core values
• Strong organizational, multi-tasking, and time-management skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication
• Degree(s) in engineering discipline(s) or equivalent experience
• DOD Secret Clearance or equivalent 

Essential Functions:

• Requires mobility and the ability to bend and reach 
• May infrequently require lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling materials weighing up to 30 pounds. 
• Manual dexterity and coordination are required; repetitive hand motion (e.g., to operate computer keyboard) 
• Vision at close distances and the ability to adjust focus for prolonged periods  (i.e., computer screen)
• Ability to remain sedentary or stationary for prolonged periods of time 
• Ability to write for extended periods of time 
• Ability to work in an office setting for prolonged periods of time
• May be asked to carry up to 20 lbs. up and down a flight of stairs on a regular basis such as files, books, office equipment, etc. 
• Occasional reaching overhead and lifting up to 15 pounds
• Ability to converse and communicate information with others
• Occasional exposure to chemical vapors and/or fumes in low non-hazardous concentration
• Potential to climb up and down steps on a daily basis
• Must be able to read and understand SDS