Director of Engineering - First Search Inc

As the Director of Engineering, you will be a pivotal leader in our clients company, overseeing all engineering functions and playing a crucial role in bringing there revolutionary engine design to commercialization. Collaborating closely with company management, technical advisors, and the broader engineering team, your primary objective will be to drive technical excellence and innovation, ensuring the successful execution of our engine development program.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the engineering team, including Chief Engineers, Engineering Managers, Technical Specialists, and supporting staff, to achieve technical objectives and milestones in alignment with company goals.
• Develop and execute comprehensive plans for the development of the rotary engine, from prototype through production, while maintaining effective communication and alignment across all team members.
• Work closely with the CTO, and other management stakeholders to establish and refine the technical direction of the engine program, presenting data and iterating ideas coherently to ensure alignment.
• Collaborate with special advisors, consultants, and key management team members to leverage external expertise and refine technical strategies.
• Lead by example, actively engaging in debugging, problem-solving, and hands-on engineering activities, and spending a significant portion of your time in the lab or engineering offices.
• Drive invention and problem-solving initiatives to enhance engine performance and optimize production methods, applying your expertise in mechanical design and implementation.
• Recruit top-notch engineering talent, contractors, and board members to support the development program and foster a culture of excellence within the team.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with contractors, advisors, suppliers, and industry contacts to support program objectives and facilitate commercialization efforts.
• Stay abreast of advancements in high-efficiency engine development through research, networking, and knowledge-sharing activities, maintaining a cutting-edge understanding of industry trends.
• Assist in the development of customer project programs, including project planning, proposal development, and engineering oversight during execution, ensuring alignment with customer requirements.
• Support company business development objectives by organizing technical demonstrations and engaging in discussions with potential strategic partners and investors.
• Maintain a positive and motivational attitude in the face of challenges and failures inherent in a research environment, inspiring and energizing the team to overcome obstacles.

Qualifications:

• MS or PhD in Mechanical Engineering preferred.
• 10+ years of relevant experience. Managing an engine program from concept through production is preferred.
• A seasoned engineering professional with expertise equivalent to a chief of engine program level, particularly in assembly design and integration of engines and associated systems.
• Proficient in managing the integration of complex systems, optimizing various parameters including size, weight, cost, and function.
• An innovative thinker with strong problem-solving skills and a hands-on approach to work.
• Technical depth in combustion engines, rotary equipment, thermofluid components, and electromechanical systems.
• Proficient in design and simulation tools, with experience in SolidWorks considered a plus.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrates creativity, adaptability, and a willingness to tackle challenges in pursuit of building groundbreaking rotary engines.

Preferred Skills (Additional):

• Experience in complex combustion engine system assembly integration and packaging.
• Proficiency in electro-hydraulic-mechanical design and simulation.
• Familiarity with SolidWorks, CAD, FEA, and simulation tools.
• Strong project management and presentation skills, with proficiency in MS Word, MS Project, MS PowerPoint, and Excel.