Principal Engineer and Team Leader

Position Summary:

At the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI), we are pushing the boundaries of what is possible, delivering novel solutions to sponsors like NASA, the Department of Defense, and industry. The UDRI Space & Power System Office intends to pioneer the next generation of space power systems, batteries, and other emerging technologies, enabling sustainable, resilient, high-efficiency solutions for aerospace and advanced space-based operations. We seek a Chief Engineer and Team Leader to help us on multiple projects developing novel Space and Power Systems.

The Chief Engineer for the Space and Power Systems Office is the technical authority for designing, developing, integrating, and operational deploying advanced power systems for space exploration, satellite platforms, and spacecraft. The role involves leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams and ensuring the delivery of innovative, reliable, and efficient power solutions that meet mission requirements and industry standards. Additionally, this individual serves as a bridge between the technical and business realms, ensuring that engineering excellence supports organizational growth by helping to secure new opportunities, maintain competitive differentiation, and deliver value to our sponsors.

New ideas surround us, but only a few will change the world. We are building upon space and power system design philosophies that have stood the test of time, and this is your opportunity to become part of a team that brings us one step closer. If you desire to create something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for UDRI. Our Space and Power System Office solves complex challenges and develops novel solutions, but our culture makes us unique. We offer a welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
Responsibilities

• Technical Leadership: Act as the principal technical advisor, defining and guiding the engineering vision for all projects in the Office, including radioisotope power systems, batteries, and other energy generation and storage technologies. Independently validate that system architectures meet performance, reliability, and safety standards for human-crewed and uncrewed missions. Stay informed on emerging technologies and guide their incorporation into future designs. Assist in resolving complex design challenges, ensuring systems are optimized for the mission environment.

• Planning: Direct selection and implementation of a Product Data Management (PDM) system, including requirements analysis, vendor evaluation, and deployment planning, to improve data governance, streamline engineering workflows, and enhance collaboration across teams.

• Leadership: Provide technical oversight to the Emerging Technologies team, ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.

• Project Oversight: Collaborate with Group Leaders (GLs), Principal Investigators (PIs), and Project Managers in developing technical roadmaps, budgets, and project schedules. Coordinate with external partners, including government agencies (e.g., NASA, DoD, DOE, ESA), contractors, and international collaborators as required.

• Risk Management: Identify, assess, and advise on mitigation strategies for technical risks associated with power system development and deployment. Ensure compliance with aerospace industry standards, such as AS9100, and relevant government regulations. Conduct design reviews, audits, and validation processes to meet certification and launch readiness requirements.

• Mentorship and Team Development: Lead a team of highly specialized scientists and engineers focused on developing and maturing emerging technologies. Mentor and develop engineering talent, fostering innovation and technical excellence within the Office. Promote a culture of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement.

• Business Development: Evaluate the feasibility of new business opportunities and provide technical insights to support decision-making. Ensure that research and development efforts align with emerging market demands and business development goals.

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS in Engineering (Aerospace, Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, Materials, or related technical field).
• A minimum of 15 years experience in a related engineering position.
• Strong understanding of space-qualified power systems, including radioisotope, photovoltaics, battery, energy storage, thermal management, and power distribution.
• Proven leadership experience in a senior technical role within the aerospace industry or a related field.
• Self-motivated & organized with the ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to create, read, and interpret models, technical drawings, schematics, and computer-generated reports.
• Problem-solving and time-ma