Senior Project Engineer - Test Equipment (Aerospace & Defense Leader)

Senior Project Engineer – Test Equipment (Confidential Aerospace & Defense Leader)

Buffalo, NY (Hybrid – Primarily Onsite) | Global Exposure

The Opportunity

We are partnering with a top-tier aerospace and defense organization to identify a Senior Project Engineer supporting military aircraft flight control systems through advanced test equipment development and sustainment .

This is a mission-critical role at the intersection of engineering, program execution, and global defense support , where your work directly ensures the reliability and performance of systems deployed worldwide.

If you're a technically grounded project leader who thrives in complex environments—this is where engineering precision meets global impact .

Why This Role Stands Out

• Mission-Driven Work: Support test systems that validate critical flight control technologies
• End-to-End Ownership: Lead full lifecycle delivery—from requirements through deployment
• Global Collaboration: Engage with U.S. and international defense customers and vendors
• High Visibility: Direct interaction with senior leadership and key stakeholders

Engineering in a Modern, Data-Driven Environment

This organization is evolving its engineering ecosystem through:

• Advanced test systems and validation frameworks
• Data-driven performance verification and diagnostics
• Integration of digital engineering and predictive testing methodologies
• Structured execution using program governance and earned value principles

You'll operate in an environment where:

• Engineering decisions are grounded in data, validation, and compliance
• Complex systems are delivered through disciplined program execution
• Innovation is applied to real-world defense applications

What You'll Own

• Lead planning, execution, and delivery of test equipment projects supporting military aircraft systems
• Manage one major and multiple concurrent projects , ensuring delivery on time and within scope
• Own cost, schedule, and performance tracking , including forecasting and reporting
• Collaborate with military customers and internal engineering teams to define and deliver requirements
• Develop technical specifications, SOWs, and proposals for test equipment solutions
• Oversee vendor selection, subcontract management, and performance evaluation
• Act as Contractor Coordinator , including on-site vendor oversight and audits
• Drive resolution of technical issues, non-conformances, and corrective actions
• Ensure adherence to compliance, safety, and regulatory standards

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Systems Engineering , or related field
• 7+ years of experience in:
  • Technical project management
  • Aerospace, automotive, or test equipment environments
• Proven experience managing:
  • Cost, schedule, and scope for complex engineering programs
  • Requirements, validation, and verification processes
• Strong background in:
  • Vendor/subcontract management
  • Technical documentation and proposal development
• Hands-on familiarity with:
  • Hydraulic, electrical, or mechanical actuation systems
• Ability to obtain security clearance (U.S. citizenship required)

Preferred Profile

• Experience leading cross-functional engineering teams
• Exposure to international customers and global programs
• Familiarity with EVMS or structured program management frameworks
• Background in test equipment design or validation systems

Environment & Expectations

• Hybrid role based in Buffalo, NY (primarily onsite)
• Travel: ~25% (domestic and international)
• High accountability role requiring ownership, precision, and leadership

Why Partner With Us

At Northwest Talent Solutions , we specialize in placing high-impact engineering leaders into roles that shape critical industries.

• We leverage AI-enabled sourcing and talent intelligence to identify niche, high-value talent
• Deep expertise across aerospace, manufacturing, and engineering ecosystems
• We deliver a high-touch, confidential search experience tailored to senior professionals

This is not a transactional process.
This is a strategic search for engineers who operate at the highest level.

Interested?

If you're ready to lead complex engineering programs that support mission-critical aerospace systems , we'd love to connect.

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