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.
Numbers & Facts
Location
New Hudson, MI
Salary
$145,000–$196,000 Per Year
Description
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