Director, Aerospace Design

Job Description:Saab, Inc., Aerospace Systems, located in West Lafayette, Indiana, next to the world-renowned Purdue University, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Engineering - Aerospace Design to enhance Saab’s technical capabilities and leadership in collaboration with our team in Sweden.In this role, you will establish a team and lead the transfer of design technology for the T-7A Red Hawk aft fuselage and other aerospace products and systems to support manufacturing in the United States. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical, strategic, and relationship-building skills in a greenfield operation.Responsibilities include:Lead engineering data management and revision control, design instruction and infrastructure, safety and airworthiness best practices in accordance with Saab design and stress standards, design for manufacturing support and change requests to enhance product performance, and lead the material review board (MRB) team in the United StatesSubject matter expert in design reviews, product evaluations, change requests, support customer engagements as the local subject matter expert (SME) in aerospace design, and help derive and implement Industry 4.0 technologiesDevelop an investment plan that includes staffing to establish an engineering design capability in the United States, capital planning for tools and software, and IR&D and B&P requirements working with general management, finance, marketing and sales, and the engineering teamsEstablish a strong relationship with the design authority in Sweden and work closely with business development and R&D teams on proposals and business case development, and provide budgetary inputEnsure requirements for product safety, performance, customer specifications, and schedule are exceededRepresent business unit in an international environment reporting status of projects to senior levels of managementServe as a liaison to Purdue University developing research projects and establishing a talent pipeline for future growthContribute to work culture aligned with Saab Company values – demonstrating Trust, Drive, Expertise and SupportSupport other projects and tasks as assignedFor the initial training period of 6 months to 1 year, you will have the opportunity to travel to Sweden and with guidance of our aerospace systems design team learn the tools, methods, and ways of working on the T-7A Red Hawk.Compensation Range: $189,000-$255,100This position is based out of West Lafayette, IN. Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.  #CJThe 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:Bachelors – Aerospace Engineering or similar design equivalentMasters – Aerospace Engineering or similar business equivalent15+ years of aerospace design experience in aerostructures. Systems experience is a plus 10+ years of experience leading large cross functional teamsCompetence in systems design, stress analysis, material review board (MRB), and development for manned/unmanned aircraft is preferred Experience in DoD regulations, including FARs, DFARS, ITAR, EARExperience with FAA Part 23 regulations for aircraft type certificationMaterial expertise in metallics, composites, and other advanced materials preferredExperience with new product introduction, industrialization, technology transfers, and product readiness developmentExperience with design and simulation tools inside Siemens and Dassault software systems and digital design systemsExperience with military DoD regulatory requirements in design, testing, stress, and validation including airworthiness specification and testingStrong interpersonal skills working with innovative international teams and matrix reporting structuresExcellent verbal and written communication skills with team building experienceExperience creating and maintaining an operating budget, forecasting and executing resource requirements, and developing business proposals to meet company objectivesThe ability to grow and mentor technical talent by identifying, crafting, and implementing development and compensation plansThe ability to identify, qualify and cultivate strategic partnerships in support of functional and business objectives internally and externallyMust hold or be able to obtain U.S. DoD Secret security clearanceCitizenship 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, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits. Highlights include:Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependentsGenerous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays401(k) with employer contributionsTuition assistance and student loan assistanceWellness and employee assistance resourcesEmployee stock purchase opportunitiesShort-term and long-term disability coverageAbout 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 Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity 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.

Created: 2026-02-14