Director, Hardware Engineering Job at AEVEX Aerospace in Tampa

Director, Hardware Development

This is an onsite position.

Job Overview

The Director of Hardware Development is a senior engineering manager responsible for design, development, and delivery of hardware solutions that meet business and customer needs. This role oversees mechanical, aerospace, and electrical engineers and defines, implements and improves hardware development capabilities, processes, and tools required to deliver innovative quality solutions through the entire product lifecycle. The Director collaborates closely with systems, software, operations, and manufacturing partners to deliver integrated, reliable, and cost-effective hardware solutions. The Director owns the hardware development capability for the business unit and is responsible for staffing, mentoring and growing high performing teams.

Essential Functions

• Lead the hardware development organization, including mechanical, aerospace, and electrical engineering teams.
• Define and execute the hardware development strategy in alignment with company goals and product roadmap.
• Oversee the design, prototyping, validation, and production of hardware products, ensuring quality, compliance, and on-time delivery.
• Establish and enforce engineering best practices, including design reviews, testing protocols, reliability standards, and documentation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams—Systems, Software, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Quality—to ensure seamless integration and delivery of hardware products.
• Drive innovation by evaluating emerging technologies, materials, and design methods to enhance product performance and reduce cost.
• Develop and manage budgets, resource planning, and capital investments for hardware development programs.
• Foster a high-performing, collaborative engineering culture with a focus on mentorship, career development, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, certifications, and regulatory requirements (e.g., FCC, CE, MIL-STD, AS9100, ISO, etc. depending on industry).
• Partner with operations and suppliers to support design-for-manufacturability, scalability, and lifecycle management.
• Perform other duties as required.
• Regular and reliable attendance on a full-time basis.
• Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal and external business associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices.
• Embodies AEVEX’s cultural values and aligns daily actions with department goals and company culture.

Qualifications and Competencies

• Proven track record of leading full lifecycle hardware development project teams—from concept to high-volume production.
• Deep understanding of hardware design principles, system architecture, and integration with software/firmware.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, supply chain considerations, and quality standards.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to balance strategic direction with technical engagement when needed.
• Directs and provides expert knowledge in the strategic function of the department.
• Develops short and long-term people and organizational strategy in alignment with AEVEX goals and direction.
• Leads with impact & influence. Establishes credibility, effectively persuades and develops others, and achieves important objectives collaboratively.
• Identifies, recruits, and retains top-notch talent.
• Champions AEVEX’s culture and empowers employees to take responsibility for their jobs and goals.
• Sets performance standards and encourages employee engagement and results through delegation, continuous feedback, goal setting, and performance management.
• Maintains transparent communication. Appropriately communicates organization information through department meetings, one-on-one meetings, and appropriate email, and regular interpersonal communication.

Education / Certifications

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (Master’s or PhD preferred).

Experience

10+ years of progressive hardware engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing multidisciplinary teams.

Experience with prototyping, simulation, test validation, and product certification.

Experience working with global teams, external partners, and contract manufacturers is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties the employee is: Frequently required to sit, and to reach to use computers and other office equipment Frequently required repetitive movements of wrists, hands, and/or fingers

Security Clearance

Active Top Secret DoD Clearance, U.S. Citizenship preferred.

About AEVEX Aerospace

AEVEX Aerospace, headquartered in Solana Beach, California, supports the U.S. national security mission and partner nation needs around the world by providing full-spectrum aviation, remote sensing, and analysis solutions.

AEVEX Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, religious creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, breast feeding and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, military and veteran status, marital status, age, protected medical condition, genetic information, physical disability, mental disability, or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state and local laws.