About POWERTECHPOWERTECH is a center of excellence for propulsion technologies, specializing in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of combustion engines, expendable turbojet engines, and turbofan engines for a wide range of aerospace, defence, and autonomous applications, including fixed- and rotary-wing UAVs and other advanced platforms.Job Summary:The Head of Technology Programs will lead the development and execution of cutting-edge propulsion technologies and oversee the advancement of revolutionary engine architectures. This leadership role involves forming and guiding a high-performing team, developing technology roadmaps, and ensuring the department meets its objectives aligned with long-term strategic goals. The Manager will drive the development of propulsion systems that set industry benchmarks for performance, sustainability, and efficiency, while working closely with cross-functional teams across PowerTech and EDGE, as well as external partners.Key Responsibilities:
Team Formation and Leadership:
Form and lead the Technology Programs Department, building a dynamic, high-performing team that is aligned with the company's strategic objectives.
Manage, guide, and mentor team members, providing coaching and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning.
Motivate and support employee development by identifying training needs, encouraging career growth, and providing developmental opportunities.
Technology Roadmap Development and Execution:
Develop and maintain a Technology Roadmap for next-generation propulsion technologies, ensuring alignment with the company's long-term goals and PowerTech product development.
Collaborate with all relevant internal teams (including PowerTech and EDGE) to define the technology roadmap and execute its strategic objectives.
Monitor and track progress on key initiatives within the roadmap, ensuring timely and successful execution of technology projects.
Project Portfolio Management:
Initiate, oversee, and monitor the progress of a portfolio of projects required to implement the Technology Roadmap, ensuring alignment with business goals and timelines.
Approve project plans, budgets, and documentation, ensuring adherence to the established project management processes.
Manage risk assessment, mitigation strategies, and resources across multiple projects, ensuring they are delivered within scope, time, and budget.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Foster strong collaboration and maintain good relations with Product and Advanced Manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration of advanced propulsion technologies into product development.
Coordinate with other technology programs, including external research and educational organizations, to stay abreast of emerging trends and developments.
Lead communication with key stakeholders both internally and externally, ensuring alignment and support for ongoing and upcoming projects.
Budget and Resource Management:
Prepare and manage the department's budget, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to meet key project milestones and technological advancements.
Monitor the implementation of the department budget, identifying potential issues and opportunities for optimization.
Ensure the department operates efficiently, staying within financial and resource constraints while achieving its objectives.
Standards and Technical Disciplines:
Drive the development and implementation of technical disciplines and best practices within the team, ensuring alignment with the company's needs and industry standards.
Continuously evaluate and improve internal processes and standards to support the department's ability to innovate and deliver high-performance propulsion systems.
Technology and Innovation Leadership:
Lead research and innovation in propulsion system technologies, ensuring that the team is at the forefront of advancements in hybrid propulsion, electric engines, alternative fuels, and other disruptive technologies.
Establish a process for ongoing technology assessment, identifying and adopting new methods, materials, and tools that support the company's innovation objectives.
Stakeholder Engagement and Reporting:
Engage with internal and external stakeholders, including senior leadership, customers, and industry partners, to ensure that new propulsion technologies meet customer needs and industry demands.
Provide regular updates to senior management regarding department progress, key milestones, and technical innovations.
Prepare and present reports, technical papers, and presentations to communicate developments, risks, and future strategies.
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, with a specialization in propulsion systems, thermodynamics, or fluid dynamics.
Advanced certifications or leadership training are a plus.
10+ years of experience in propulsion system design, R&D, or advanced technology development, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role.
Proven experience in building and leading high-performing teams, developing technology roadmaps, and managing cross-functional projects.
Deep understanding of advanced propulsion technologies (electric, hybrid, and alternative fuels) and experience managing a portfolio of projects in this field.
Prior experience working closely with product teams and manufacturing departments to integrate new technologies into production.
Skills:
Strong leadership, coaching, and mentoring skills, with the ability to motivate and guide a diverse team of engineers and researchers.
Expertise in propulsion systems engineering, with an in-depth understanding of system integration, performance optimization, and the latest advancements in propulsion technology.
Proficiency in project management, including budget management, risk assessment, scheduling, and cross-functional coordination.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills, able to engage with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
Experience with advanced design and simulation tools (e.g., CFD, FEA, CAD) and methods for propulsion system analysis.
Desirable:
Experience in leading teams and projects focused on disruptive propulsion technologies.
Knowledge of emerging technologies such as AI optimization, additive manufacturing for engine components, and new materials for propulsion systems.
Experience working with external research organizations, universities, or industry partners to advance technology development.