About this role
About the Role Stratolaunch seeks a Section Manager to lead the Mechanical Design Section. This on-site role reports to the Engineering Department Manager and is responsible for the form, fit, and function of ground and flight mechanical systems, while developing engineering talent. The role balances overhead management with program tasking and supports the broader engineering team and strategic goals. What You'll Do
- Provide technical guidance and peer review to direct reports and programs in your area(s) of expertise.
- Collaborate with senior technical leaders to establish and enforce technical best practices and standards.
- Support Department Manager with employee development and retention initiatives.
- Partner with Department Manager, HR, and Talent Acquisition to identify qualified candidates, build interview teams, and hire engineering talent aligned with program goals.
- Lead performance management and development for direct reports in partnership with the Department Manager and Human Resources.
- Ensure compliance with applicable policies and procedures (e.g., timekeeping, employee handbook).
- Collaborate with programs and Department Manager to meet staffing needs and resolve resource conflicts.
- Assist in developing and executing strategic staffing initiatives.
- Support proposal efforts as required.
- Balance overhead management with billable program/tasking (e.g., Bid & Proposal, IR&D). What We're Looking For
- Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
- Proven success as an individual contributor and/or technical team leader.
- Experience recruiting and hiring technical employees.
- Analytical and critical thinking skills to solve multi-disciplinary, open-ended problems.
- Ability to work independently in a dynamic environment to achieve business goals.
- Technical expertise in at least one engineering domain relevant to the Section.
- US Citizenship with the ability to obtain a DoD security clearance.
- Required computer skills: MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Nice to Have
- Experience working in matrixed organizations and staffing technical personnel across multiple programs.
- Experience leading and managing small-to-medium sized technical teams (10+) in resource-constrained environments (e.g., aerospace development programs).
- Active DoD security clearance. Compensation & Benefits
- Salary ranges: $157,000–$206,000 (Manager) or $181,000–$237,000 (Sr. Manager) per year.
- Benefits include a 9/80 work schedule, healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs), paid maternity and parental leave, 50% company match on 401(k) contributions up to $11,500, and tuition reimbursement.