Job Description
Job Description
Join North Wind – Accelerating Hypersonic Innovation
At North Wind, we are advancing hypersonic technologies through cutting-edge research, system development, and flight testing. Our team drives innovation in high-speed aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and mission-critical components, supporting every phase of hypersonic programs—from R&D to flight testing. If you are passionate about pushing technological boundaries in a dynamic environment, we invite you to join us.
The Chief Digital Engineer is a key position that reports to executive leadership and is responsible for developing and executing the company’s digital engineering vision in alignment with corporate strategy and program needs. Leads the adoption of model-based systems engineering, digital twins, and advanced simulation tools to drive innovation, improve system integration, and enhance program execution across all phases of development. Requires experience in hypersonic system development and test & evaluation.
Responsibilities:
Digital Strategy & Innovation: Develop and implement a comprehensive digital strategy aligned with business goals, driving innovation and growth through technology. Drive the adoption of emerging technologies and innovative engineering methodologies to enhance product development, improve operational efficiency, and create competitive advantages.
Technology Leadership: Oversee the development and implementation of digital solutions, including software, platforms, and infrastructure. Supporting complex engineering and program requirements with a focus on high-speed and hypersonic systems for ground and flight testing. Ensure these solutions meet complex technical and programmatic requirements while adhering to industry standards and best engineering practices. Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to align technology strategies with project goals, driving innovation, reliability, and scalability.
Team Management: Provide leadership, mentorship, and strategic direction to multidisciplinary engineering teams. Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages innovation, accountability, and professional growth. Promote best practices in agile development, systems engineering, and quality assurance to ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality software and technical solutions. Champion continuous improvement through regular feedback, training opportunities, and performance development initiatives to maximize team effectiveness and align with organizational goals.
Technical Expertise: Spearhead strategic initiatives to identify, develop, and integrate emerging technologies that enhance future capabilities and offerings with a focus on hypersonic and high speed systems. Provide technical leadership and guidance on architecture, design, and implementation of digital solutions, ensuring they are scalable, reliable, and secure.
Cross-functional Collaboration: Partner with Division and Functional leadership to ensure alignment and seamless integration of digital initiatives.
Performance Monitoring & Optimization: Track and analyze digital performance metrics, providing insights and recommendations for improvement.
Preferred Education / Experience:
- Advanced degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline
- Minimum 20 years of relevant experience in product engineering and planning.
- A combination of education and experience equivalent to above
Preferred Knowledge / Ability:
- Deep understanding of engineering principles, including mechanical, electromechanical, and aeronautical systems design, test, and evaluation with a emphasis on hypersonics.
- Proficiency in interpreting engineering plans, technical drawings, and specifications.
- Ability to define complex problems, analyze data, interpret abstract concepts, and develop effective solutions.
- Strong knowledge of digital engineering tools and technologies, including model-based systems engineering (MBSE), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), AI/ML, IoT, DevOps, and cloud-based platforms.
- Demonstrated success leading high-performing engineering teams and driving digital transformation initiatives.
- Skilled in project management, prioritization, budgeting, and delivering results on time.
- Familiarity with Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition processes, R&D funding, and technology development programs.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging to technical and non-technical audiences.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and engineering-related software tools.
- Active U.S. security clearance strongly preferred; candidates must be U.S. citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain a clearance.
Additional Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with high-speed/hypersonic aerospace test systems and/or vehicle development programs.
- Background in early-stage R&D, product development methodologies, and innovation strategy.
- Previous involvement in business integration efforts such as planning, analysis, or M&A activities.