Research Manager, Propellants Explosives and Pyrotechnics
Mesa, AZ
Nammo Defense Systems – Engineering /
Full Time, Salary with benefits /
On-site
Nammo Defense Systems Inc., a defense contractor, manufactures and supports shoulder-fired systems; energetic material solutions such as aircraft emergency escape systems, actuation devices, rocket motors, warheads, medium & large caliber ammunitions, mortar ammunition; and composite solutions including carbon fiber tubes and composite aero-structures.
Position Summary:
Our client is seeking a Propellants Explosives and Pyrotechnics (PEP) Research Manager responsible for leading the PEP Research department of Chemists and Scientists to be the NDS Mesa subject matter experts in energetic materials formulation, chemistry, processing, and properties. The Manager implements strategic direction from the NDS Director of Research, and supports the Director in development of strategy.
The Manager ensures the department provides technical guidance to Manufacturing Operations to ensure the factory safely and successfully manufactures energetic materials. The Manager ensures the department provides the Research Operations group technical direction and technical oversight of laboratory operations. The Manager ensures the department supports cross-functional Program Teams in their execution of production programs.
The Manager is also responsible for leading the team to identify, plan and execute energetics research activities that enable pursuit of future product lines. The Manager leads the team to propose and execute IR&D and customer funded programs that develop energetic materials solutions supporting NDS Mesa strategy.
The Manager will provide managerial leadership to the PEP staff, to include setting expectations and holding people accountable. The Manager will guide direct reports in their professional development, to include technical skills, work habits, interpersonal effectiveness and business acumen. The Manager continuously develops team staff to be subject matter experts in the chemistry, processing, properties and testing of energetic materials produced by NDS, enabling the team to provide technical support to the factory and customers. The Manager ensures the PEP team is engaged in the energetics community.
Primary Responsibilities of a Research Manager
- Foster a culture of safety within the PEP team
- Ensure department proactive and responsive engagement of self and team in Manufacturing Operations energetic production activities to ensure safe and accurate production of energetics
- Ensure department proactive and responsive engagement in Research Operations activities to ensure safe and accurate execution of laboratory activities
- Engagement in cross-functional Program Teams to support production programs
- Implement strategic direction from Director of Research
- Ensure department is meeting site management objectives
- Develop department budgets and ensure financial and labor utilization requirements are met
- Workload/assignment distribution to team
- Direct report goal setting and evaluation
- Provide mentorship to department staff and foster/support a culture of professional development
- Ensure adequate and timely technical documentation is performed by team
- Identify analytical instrumentation/equipment investments that supporting current and future technology pursuits
Experience & Skills Needed as a Research Manager
- BS/MS/Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or applicable Materials Science discipline preferred
- Minimum 10+ years in energetic materials industry preferred
- Minimum 5 years experience leading people preferred
- Ability to work effectively with the cross-functional NDS Mesa Team
- Ability to create and effectively manage department by providing mentorship, team building, and professional development
- Proven track record of being able to create highly effective teams
- Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment to ensure departments support site objectives and works well with cross functional site leadership
- Highly organized
- Excellent communicator
How you Will be Rewarded as a Research Manager
- Competitive Salary
- Benefits Package: Medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, 401k (company match), HSA (flexible spending account), Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
- Generous paid time off plan and holiday pay
- Work week Monday - Thursday 4 - 10 hour days (OFF Fridays)
Our values are the fundamental principles guiding the way we do business and interact with stakeholders.
DEDICATION: We are enthusiastic and creative, always searching for the best solutions.
PRECISION: We are reliable and accurate in our technology, processes and business.
CARE: We are inclusive and open-minded, always encouraging team spirit and cooperation.
Nammo and its subsidiaries provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
**Note**: Due to US Export Control laws and regulations; applicants selected for employment must show proof of a U.S. Person status before employment may begin.
