Systems Management Area Manager

General Dynamics Land Systems

  • Sterling Heights, MI
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 month ago
Job DescriptionAbout the RoleGeneral Dynamics is looking to hire a highly motivated, best-in-class Area Manager for the Wheeled Systems Management function. This position will be responsible for managing employees consisting of project and chief engineers that will lead the development of new products on wheeled vehicles from proposal to design release.Company InformationGeneral Dynamics is a successful Fortune 100, global aerospace and defense company, with over 90,000 employees world-wide. General Dynamics Land Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics, has a strong foundation of delivering core engineering and manufacturing capabilities to our clients for military vehicles. Our team is focused on continuous process and productivity improvements that reduce product costs, while increasing troop safety and effectiveness. Land Systems continues to work with the US Armed Forces and its Allies to ensure these vehicles remain survivable, relevant, flexible, affordable and capable of addressing a dynamic threat environment.Hybrid/Onsite:
  • Due to the nature of the work, this role may require on-site presence up to 100% at times.
Responsibilities to Anticipate for this role
  • Area manager for 5-12 project and chief engineers
  • Lead development of and approve proposals, along with developing strategies for winning future contracts on existing and new variants of wheeled vehicle platforms.
  • Ensure schedules are maintained and team aware of all work product delivery dates. Work with EPM and CE to develop schedules and BOEs. Collaborate with Program Management and Engineering to plan out development, analysis, and test activities across multiple programs.
  • Maintain and ensure all EVMS metrics (CPI/SPI) are met.
  • Lead Process and Quality Improvements.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key customers.
  • Collaborate with other Managers to assess common needs and deficiencies.
  • Collaborate with Program Management and Engineering to plan out development, analysis, and test activities across multiple programs.
  • Develop and maintain long-term roadmaps that align with organizational and business strategies.
  • Develop and maintain organizational work products, including charters, process workflows, training materials, budget plans, personnel assignments, organizational charts, metrics, etc.
  • Develop and maintain policies, procedures, and associated staff training plans.
  • Interact and negotiate with suppliers to secure commitments on delivery of materials and other resources.
Operational Management
  • Manage Area budgets, schedules, and work assignments to ensure worked is performed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality.
  • Develop and submit proposals for new / modified work scope.
  • Identify and schedule manpower needs, tools, and training requirements.
  • Hire, train, and mentor employees to establish the technical competency and domain expertise required to successfully meet area objectives.
  • Provide mentorship to staff and facilitate transfer of knowledge and succession planning for department
  • Develop and track department metrics and take action when appropriate.
  • Maintain ISO certification and CMMI standing by participating in regular process audits.
  • Promote a team environment and facilitate intra- and inter-group coordination.
  • Participate in technical and program reviews.
  • Conduct employee performance appraisals.
  • Track cost and schedule performance for the Area.
  • Prepare weekly status reports and conduct staff meetings.
Applicants must possess the following leadership skills
  • Experience managing teams of 15+ project management engineers.
  • Demonstrated project management experience overseeing simple or complex technical projects
  • Experience with resource forecasting.
  • Be able to multi-task on simultaneous development projects, ensuring adherence to budget, schedule, and mission scope.
  • Have exceptional customer service and communication skills and be helpful and calm under pressure.
  • Have a proactive attitude and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where the toolset is continuously evolving.
  • Be able to stay up-to-date with emerging technologies.
  • Preforms other duties as assigned.
Position Requirements
  • BS in Electrical, Computer or Mechanical Engineering required.
  • Proven 10+ years of managing defense related programs.
  • Proven track record in leadership of teams
  • Proved track record in product development and release.
  • Knowledge of business finances, Earned Value Management System (EVMS), scheduling tools, and critical path analysis.
  • Proficient in MS Office tools.
  • Strong multi-tasking and record keeping skills
  • Ability to work with interdisciplinary teams.
  • Previous experience with ground combat Vehicle environment desired.
Additional Information / Desired Experience
  • This position may require eligibility to obtain a US security clearance. (Non-US Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance).
  • This position will require the candidate to be able to climb on/off, work in, and work around military vehicles is desired. Must be able to pass ASR test (Anthropometric Size Requirement for confined space).
  • Able to bring continuous improvement processes and methodologies to the position. Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills is required. Works well in team and individually.
  • Must be able to work occasional evening and/or weekend overtime as required.
  • Travel up to 20% may be required as needed.
GDLS considers factors such as, scope/responsibilities of the position, candidate experience and education/training background, in addition to local market comparable and business considerations when extending an offer.Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, General Dynamics is a global aerospace and defense company offering a broad portfolio of products and services in business aviation; ship construction and repair; land combat vehicles, weapons systems and munitions; and technology products and services. General Dynamics employs more than 100,000 people across 65 countries worldwide and in all 50 U.S. states, more information is available at www.gd.com. General Dynamics Land Systems, is a business unit of General Dynamics, and is an innovative leader of ground combat systems’ equipment and software for our clients. Our performance-driven team partners with the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corp and other militaries across the Globe to ensure that next generation ground combat vehicles are ready to protect our fighting men and women in uniform. General Dynamics Lands Systems provides a competitive compensation package, site specific flexible work schedules, 401(k) with Company Match; Bonus Eligibility, Employee Development Opportunities, Tuition Reimbursement, On-site Amenities, and comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance. At General Dynamics Land Systems, we strive to be champions who drive diversity, equity and inclusion. We are committed to our values and beliefs to provide a healthy and secure working environment that empowers team members to build careers that reward. We are focused on supporting an inclusive company that recognizes the value in creating a dynamic team that is diverse.As an Equal Opportunity Employer, General Dynamics Land Systems (“GDLS”) provides all persons with equal opportunity and access to all aspects of employment process, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, age, disability, status as a protected veteran, or membership in any group protected by federal, state, or local anti-discrimination laws. GDLS also is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans.. If, due to a disability, you need an accommodation to search or apply for an opportunity with GDLS, please call 586-825-4000 or send an e-mail to for assistance and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

General Dynamics Land Systems