Northrop Grumman’s Defense Systems sector is currently seeking an Manager Research Development 2 to support our growing business in our Rocket Center, West Virginia location.
This position will be located on-site at our Rocket Center, WV location. No remote work is available for this position.
The Manager of Energetics and Material Chemistry (E&MC) reports directly to the Sr. Manager of Energetic Technologies and Laboratories; they will lead a team of about 10-12 Research Scientists of diverse backgrounds and skillsets. The E&MC organization is responsible for the research, development, formulation, and tailoring of both existing and novel: energetic materials, propellants, explosives, rocket motor case bond liners, thermal rubber insulations, and adhesives.
Position Summary:
• Manage department resources (personnel and financial) ensuring appropriate level of support and prioritization of activities
• Mentor and develop research scientists on technical projects and assignments
• Provide guidance, direction, and performance feedback
• Coach, support, and motivate to maintain and develop a highly performing team
• Promote innovation and continuous improvement as well as a strong focus on safety
• Review work products and documents to ensure technical rigor and quality
• Assure cost effectiveness and timely completion of projects
• Interface with internal and external customers
• Perform technical planning, cost estimation and general proposal support activities for new business captures
• Coordinate and implement strategic initiatives within the department
Basic Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science or related science field
• 8 years of relevant experience with a BS degree; 6 years with an MS degree
• Willingness to work outside of standard work hours or overtime when needed to resolve issues
• Strong verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills necessary to effectively collaborate in a team environment
• Demonstrated leadership and/or managerial skills including: project leadership, team building, mentoring, technical and inter-personal problem resolution, work planning and allocation, etc.
• Skilled at building relationships and effective communication with all levels of the organization and with internal and external customers
• Understanding of relevant chemistries including elements of: polymer, organic, physical, and inorganic
• Familiar with statistical based methods for design of experiments and analysis of physical and chemical data
• Proficiency in MS office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Able to obtain a Secret Clearance which requires U.S. Citizenship as a prerequisite
Preferred Qualifications:
• M.S. or Ph.D.
• Laboratory or manufacturing experience handling explosive, energetic, or hazardous materials
• Experience in solid propellants as well as rocket/missile design, development, and production
• Understanding of Statistical Process Control (SPC)
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