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Saab Global
Installation in HQ

Director, Systems Engineering & Test

Quincy, Massachusetts, United States of America
Closing date: 30 June 2024

Job Description:

Saab, Inc. Autonomous & Undersea Systems Division is seeking to fill the role of Director, System Engineering & Test. The Director, System Engineering & Test reports to the VP & General Manager of Autonomous & Undersea Systems, and collaborates with other members of the Division Leadership Team to:  

  • Manage and staff the team of Systems and Test Engineers (currently 4 full- and part-time employees and contractors) including but not limited to:

    • Define a team structure, mentor and manage the staff.

    • Create a team that has the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to conduct the work of the current backlog and can evolve to meet anticipated future needs.

    • Instill a life cycle mindset throughout the team.  Saab Inc. delivers products that remain in use for 20+ years and System development requires the long view to meet long term objectives, often in conflict with near term schedule and/or cost goals.

    • Ensure that all Programs, R&D Projects, Product Teams and any other Project requiring System Engineer(s) and Operational Testing are sufficiently staffed to meet their objectives.

    • Overseeing the performance management processes to include Individual Performance Management (IPM) and compensation.

  • Work with Project Managers to ensure that System Development Plans are reasonable and realistic, and following up with Project Managers to monitor project performance.   In particular, ensure that on new efforts, our System Engineering defines and shapes future work.

  • Own those processes, methods and tools used by System Engineering and Operational Testing in the day to day business of the division.   Where possible and practical, streamline the System Engineering and Test “way of working” while allowing differences to perpetuate where it is appropriate. 

  • Foster an environment of continuous improvement of the quality, cost and schedule performance of System Development and Operational Testing.

  • Interface with the Saab, Inc. functions (Security, ICT, HR and Operations) where appropriate to be a voice for System Engineering people and ways of working.  

  • Work with the General Manager to devise a System Engineering & Test workforce strategy to define:

    • A means to recruit, attract and retain Systems and Test Engineers with the knowledge, skills and abilities required to serve the Division.

    • Training opportunities and methods to blend formal opportunities with job-related work and tasks that enable continuous individual growth while getting the work of the business done.

    • Means of acquiring surge capability where appropriate by establishing and maintaining relationships with third parties that can staff work.

    • A strategy for incorporating remote work, distant work, part-time work, and other less traditional arrangements that are likely necessary for continued staff increases.
       

  • Oversee all costing efforts done by Systems Engineering and Operational Test team members.

  • Participate on the General Manager Leadership Team, working with other members to solve Division-wide problems, disseminate information, and be visible Leaders for the entire team.

Compensation Range: $212,000-$280,900

The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

Skills and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in engineering, math, science or related field. Master’s degree preferred.

  • Demonstrated experience Managing an Engineering team.

  • Significant experience in an Engineering development environment, with preference for Autonomous Undersea Vehicle experience.
     

Required Skills:

  • Ability to contribute to the development strategy and lead strategic initiatives in support of functional and business objectives.

  • Ability to build a high functioning engineering team focused on meeting business objectives.

  • Ability to make decisions of high impact in the presence of uncertainty.

  • Ability to preemptively prepare own organization for changes in the business environment.

  • Ability to shape the trajectory of the Division in the context of own technical domain.

  • Outstanding communication and presentation skills.

  • Willingness to travel up to 10% in support of program and business development efforts.

  • Capable of obtaining a Secret level clearance.

Citizenship Requirements:

Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Drug-Free Workplaces:

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Benefits:

Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, business-casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits:

  • Medical, vision and dental insurance for employees and dependents

  • Paid time off including: minimum of 3 weeks vacation, 5 floating holidays, 8 designated holidays, parental leave, personal illness, bereavement, jury duty, long-term and short-term disability

  • 401(k) with immediate vesting on employer match

  • Tuition assistance

  • Student loan assistance

  • Wellness account, Care.com subscription and employee assistance programs

  • Employee stock purchase program with employer match

About Us:

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 19,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer, more sustainable and more equitable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in eight U.S. locations.

Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person’s needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.