Director of Engineering (Operations)

Posted 24 Days Ago
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Center District, VA, USA
In-Office
Expert/Leader
Hardware • Security • Software • Defense
The Role
The Director of Engineering oversees hardware environments, scales production, and ensures compliance in a high-stakes aerospace or defense context.
Summary Generated by Built In
At D-Fend Solutions, our people are our greatest strength — and technology is our passion. Our team of innovators and subject matter experts, including veterans of elite military intelligence technology units, is transforming the way organizations protect themselves from drone threats.

As the global leader in cyber-takeover counter-drone technology, we design and deliver advanced, software-defined solutions that empower our customers to detect, take control, and safely land unauthorized drones — with precision and reliability.

Every day, we push the boundaries of innovation to meet real-world security challenges across industries and environments. We’re proud of our cutting-edge technology, our global reach, and the impact we make in securing the skies.

We’re seeking passionate professionals who thrive in a fast-paced, creative, and collaborative environment — those who want to be part of the next generation of airspace security innovation.

Join D-Fend Solutions and help make the world a safer place.
Become a D-Fender! Work with the world’s leading cyber-takeover counter-drone technology provider and shape the future of safe airspace.

Job Requirements:

    • B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering / Electrical Engineering / Aerospace Engineering – Mandatory. M.Sc. or MBA – a significant advantage.
    • At least 10 years of engineering leadership experience, with at least 3–5 years in a director-level or senior management role overseeing multi-disciplinary hardware environments (electronics, mechanics).
    • Roots in the Defense or Aerospace Industry – Advantage. Thorough understanding of ruggedized systems, environmental testing, and military standard compliance.
    • Proven track record of scaling production lines from low-rate initial production to high-volume manufacturing.
    • High-level mastery of PLM, and CAD ecosystem strategies (e.g., Agile, Arena, SolidWorks).
    • Expert-level understanding of diverse manufacturing processes, ATE including high-precision CNC, advanced sheet metal fabrication, precision machining, and PCBA assembly.
    • Executive Presence: Strong communication and negotiation skills; ability to influence C-level executives, and global tier-1 suppliers.
    • Systems Thinker: Ability to balance aggressive R&D timelines with manufacturing stability, cost, and strict quality constraints.
    • Strategic problem solver who thrives in highly demanding, mission-critical, and confidential environments.

Skills Required

  • B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering / Electrical Engineering / Aerospace Engineering
  • At least 10 years of engineering leadership experience
  • M.Sc. or MBA - a significant advantage
  • Experience in director-level or senior management role overseeing multi-disciplinary hardware environments
  • Understanding of ruggedized systems, environmental testing, and military standard compliance
  • Proven track record of scaling production lines
  • High-level mastery of PLM and CAD ecosystem strategies
  • Expert-level understanding of diverse manufacturing processes
  • Strong communication and negotiation skills
  • Ability to influence C-level executives and suppliers
  • Ability to balance aggressive R&D timelines with manufacturing stability
  • Strategic problem solver in mission-critical environments
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The Company
219 Employees
Year Founded: 2017

What We Do

D-Fend Solutions is a leading provider of RF cyber-takeover technology for counter-drone (C-UAS) operations. Their flagship product, EnforceAir, allows organizations to detect, identify, and safely neutralize rogue drones in sensitive environments like military zones, airports, and critical infrastructure. By using non-kinetic, cyber-based mitigation, they ensure operational continuity and safety, helping organizations maintain control of their airspace against evolving drone threats.

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