Jobs in Irvine, CA

About the role

This position leads, mentors, and grows a high-performing engineering team responsible for the design, development, and manufacturing of advanced mechanical components and assemblies for Hera Technologies’ industry-leading thermal protection systems (TPS). Operating at a senior leadership level, the Head of Engineering will drive operational excellence by managing team schedules, resource allocation, and department KPIs, while overseeing the full lifecycle from concept through production scalability. The role requires close, strategic partnership with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to champion company-wide initiatives, support business development through technical proposals and SOW generation, and ensure strict compliance with aerospace and defense standards. Ideal candidates bring 10+ years of deep technical expertise in advanced materials, composites, and ruggedized hardware, paired with a proven track record of scaling manufacturing processes, enforcing rigorous quality controls, and fostering engineering talent.

What you'll bring

• 8+ years of mechanical design and manufacturing experience, with a proven track record of managing engineering teams and technical programs focused on metallics, composites, and thermal protection systems (TPS).
• Demonstrated experience hiring, mentoring, and leading high-performing engineering teams, including establishing team schedules, managing resource allocation, and tracking KPIs to drive operational success.
• Proven leadership in directing major engineering projects from concept through production, involving mechanical systems, softgoods, and polymer-based components in the aerospace or defense sectors.
• Deep technical expertise in thermal protection systems, composite manufacturing processes, material properties, and relevant aerospace testing standards, with the ability to provide detailed-level engineering guidance.
• Experience supporting business development initiatives, including assisting with technical proposals, cost estimations, and statements of work (SOW).
• Strong background overseeing the creation of manufacturing and build plans, rigorous process documentation, and quality controls to ensure compliance with aerospace and defense industry standards.
• Strategic understanding of CAD workflows, advanced prototyping, and fabrication techniques (such as machining, composite layups, and bonding) to effectively manage engineering throughput.
• Deep knowledge and experience of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems to track inventory, manage bills of materials (BOMs), and streamline production and engineering workflows.
• Expertise leading root cause analyses and implementing corrective actions for complex material failures, process anomalies, and manufacturing defects.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field
• Ability to work in office, lab, and manufacturing environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust, and temperature variations.
• Visual acuity required for reading technical drawings, inspecting components, and operating precision instruments.

Benefits