Southwest Research Institute · 19 hours ago
MANAGER-R&D - Defense Aerospace Programs - Oklahoma City, OK
Oklahoma City, OK
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
12+ years expSouthwest Research Institute is a leading provider of engineering services in the Defense & Intelligence Solutions Division. They are seeking a Manager to oversee engineering management on complex avionics programs, develop technology roadmaps, and drive business development efforts to enhance capabilities in embedded avionics for defense applications.
Innovation ManagementMarket ResearchMechanical EngineeringNon ProfitProduct Research
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Oversee engineering management on complex avionics programs. Provide leadership in planning, execution, and technical integration to ensure cutting-edge solutions meet program requirements for aerospace and defense applications
Develop and execute a forward-thinking technology roadmap, driving basic and applied research to advance embedded avionics capabilities and position the section for future growth in alignment with strategic goals
Lead marketing, business development, and proposal creation efforts to secure new opportunities
Develop innovative technical solutions and strategies that achieve section financial objectives and expand the embedded avionics portfolio
Oversee staff tasking and progress tracking, ensuring projects meet cost, technical, and schedule objectives
Provide clear direction and accountability to maintain efficiency and alignment with program milestones and deliverables
Drive technical excellence by leading the development and integration of advanced avionics systems
Ensure designs meet industry standards, deliver superior reliability, and align with organizational goals for mission-critical applications
Manage resource allocation across programs, lead performance evaluations and hiring efforts, address personnel matters, and oversee office operations. Ensure an efficient, motivated team and provide strategic direction to maintain productivity and program success
Oversee IRAD activities by prioritizing research initiatives, allocating resources, and driving innovation within the section
Ensure projects align with strategic goals, advancing capabilities in embedded avionics and fostering future growth opportunities
Identify and pursue growth opportunities, lead competitive proposal efforts, develop cost strategies, and drive marketing initiatives
Build client relationships to highlight the section’s expertise and secure new programs aligned with aerospace and defense objectives
Plan, allocate, and forecast staff assignments to meet program demands. Ensure optimal resource utilization, align workloads with project needs, and maintain flexibility to adapt to shifting priorities while meeting technical and schedule objectives
Collaborate with the Department Director to align section performance with strategic objectives
Monitor progress, address challenges, and ensure the section meets technical, financial, and growth targets to support departmental and organizational success
Qualification
Required
Requires a Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering or similar degree with proven experience
12+ years: Experience as a technical manager, blending deep expertise with proven leadership. Skilled in building and mentoring teams, driving innovation, and overseeing successful execution of avionics/nuclear programs for defense and aerospace applications
9+ years: Expert in leading proposals, cost estimation, and resource planning for aerospace/avionics programs for DoD. Skilled in managing customer relationships, presenting solutions, and aligning technical capabilities with business objectives to secure and execute strategic programs
9+ years: Demonstrated success in business development and strategic capture management for defense programs, with specialized expertise in the nuclear and bomber sectors
A valid/clear driver's license is required
Company
Southwest Research Institute
Southwest Research Institute is an independent organization benefiting the government and others through innovative science and more.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$19.47MKey Investors
NASAUS Department of EnergyARPA-E
2025-03-11Grant· $3M
2023-06-09Grant· $2M
2022-12-14Series Unknown· $1.61M
Leadership Team
Walter D. Downing
Executive Vice President and COO
Alan Stern
Associate Vice President
Recent News
2026-01-13
2025-12-17
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