Chief Engineer

Are you ready to lead the design and development of next-generation automation systems where high-precision small parts handling, assembly, and inspection come together to enable advanced manufacturing in aerospace and defense applications?

We're seeking a Chief Engineer to lead the conceptual, technical, and research direction of PAR's most ambitious assembly automation programs. In this role, you'll serve as a senior technical leader within PAR's Automated Assembly group, driving innovation in complex, small-parts assembly automation for mission-critical aerospace and defense systems.

Our Chief Engineers operate at the intersection of innovation and delivery. You'll translate customer needs into practical, cost-effective automation concepts, guide R&D that expands PAR's assembly and process capabilities and serve as a trusted technical resource to engineering teams tackling their most challenging problems.

Core Responsibilities:

Proposal & Estimating Leadership

• Engage directly with customers to understand technical and operational requirements for aerospace and defense assembly systems.
• Lead concept development for Requests for Quotation (RFQs), defining architectures, technologies, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate across mechanical, electrical, controls, and project management disciplines to refine technical solutions and produce accurate cost, schedule, and risk estimates.
• Present technical approaches and business cases to internal stakeholders, including senior leadership, for alignment with company strategy.
• Serve as a primary technical voice in business development discussions, ensuring solutions balance innovation, manufacturability, and profitability.

Research & Development Strategy and Execution

• Contribute to the long-range R&D roadmap for Automated Assembly, identifying technologies that enhance PAR's capabilities in small-parts handling, precision assembly, and inspection automation.
• Collaborate with external partners, universities, and suppliers to accelerate innovation in robotics, sensing, and digital factory integration.
• Represent PAR in industry conferences and technical forums to strengthen our leadership in advanced assembly automation.

Red Team Leadership & Technical Problem Solving

• Act as a senior technical advisor and "Red Team" leader who is called upon to help project teams resolve high-complexity design, process, or integration challenges.
• Facilitate structured problem-solving reviews, applying engineering fundamentals and cross-disciplinary insight to guide root cause identification and resolution.
• Mentor engineers in automation design principles, system integration, and technical risk management, building organizational depth and technical maturity.

Qualifications:

• 10+ years of experience in custom automation or small-parts assembly system design and delivery.
• BS in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related field); MS preferred.
• Proven record in the design and integration of automated assembly systems including part handling, precision fixturing, laser integration, fastening, dispensing, and inspection.
• Experience developing automation for regulated industries such as aerospace or defense, with working knowledge of AS9100 and ISO 9001 quality standards.
• Demonstrated success in RFQ concept development, cost estimation, and proposal generation aligned to customer requirements.
• Experience leading cross-functional technical teams through complex problem-solving and system validation.
• Demonstrated capability in guiding R&D initiatives and integrating emerging automation technologies into production solutions.
• Strong leadership and communication skillsable to engage directly with customers and clearly articulate technical strategies to executives and engineers alike.
• Experience collaborating with legal teams on IP management and technical contract negotiation.
• US Person

You've learned about what you'll be doing, here are the benefits you'll gain when you join our team:

• Global team recognized for their passion of inventing
• First-of-a-kind product culture and project exposure
• Training and development from industry-leading experts
• Cutting edge benefit programs that include: 401(k) & matching; Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance; Disability & Life Insurance; PTO, Paid Holidays, & Parental Leave for both Parents; Tuition Reimbursement

PAR Systems is an equal opportunity employer and we value individuals with a variety of backgrounds and experiences. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin or any other status protected by applicable law. We offer market competitive pay and benefits based upon the candidate's skills, experience, qualifications, and internal equity. Our starting rate of pay for this salaried position is targeted at $150,000-200,000 annually and is bonus eligible.