Critical Parts Program Lead

Who We Are ( video )

At JRC, we tackle some of the toughest challenges faced by the Department of Defense (DoD) and other government agencies. Our expertise in engineering innovation and semiconductor technologies allows us to deliver mission-critical microelectronics solutions, aerospace systems engineering, and cutting-edge research and development. By joining JRC, you'll be part of a team that supports strategic deterrence and defense missions, playing a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the United States and its allies.

Join JRC's Missiles & Space Team!

Step into a mission‑critical leadership role at the heart of one of the Department of Defense's premier missile system programs. We're looking for a driven and highly skilled Critical Parts and Microelectronics Program Lead to safeguard the components that make a Category 1D MDAP weapon system viable, survivable, and ready for the fight.

In this role, you'll own the strategy and execution for identifying, assessing, and managing the critical parts-especially advanced and radiation‑hardened microelectronics-that underpin system reliability and mission assurance in contested environments. You'll lead the technical rigor that keeps the program ahead of risk, ahead of schedule pressure, and ahead of emerging threats.

Working across engineering, supply chain, and program leadership, you'll ensure that every critical component meets the highest standards of performance, safety, and compliance with DoDI 5000.88 and related DoD engineering policies. This is a chance to shape the technical backbone of a complex weapons system and directly influence its success across the entire lifecycle.

What You'll Do

• Serve as the principal technical advisor to the Critical Parts and Microelectronics Program on system engineering and architecture matters, with a strong emphasis on microelectronics and radiation-hardened microelectronics.
• Lead system-of-systems analysis to identify components, parts, or subsystems that present significant technical, manufacturing, test, or delivery risk. Critical parts analysis will span the full weapons system, including propulsion, guidance, control, fire control, and launch subsystems.
• Apply lessons learned from the D5LE and D5LE2 programs to inform early technical development strategies for radiation-hardened microelectronics, enabling the program to initiate RadHard development earlier in the lifecycle and avoid reliance on legacy microelectronics technologies.
• Oversee technical analysis using a risk-based framework to identify critical parts and develop strategies that reduce risk and support the successful delivery of the SLCM-N weapon system.
• Ensure design integrity through disciplined application of requirements traceability, verification, and validation processes throughout the system development lifecycle.
• Provide technical input and recommendations to Engineering Review Boards (ERB), Technical Risk Management Boards (TRMB), and Configuration Control Boards (CCB).
• Identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks across the system development lifecycle, ensuring timely visibility and resolution of issues that could impact program cost, schedule, or performance.
• Ensure technical rigor, engineering compliance, and program readiness for major technical reviews, including System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), Test Readiness Review (TRR), and Flight Readiness Review (FRR).
• Advise program leadership on acquisition strategy, cost, schedule, and technical trade-offs, and support the development of key milestone documentation and program decision materials.

What You Bring

• A bachelor's degree in engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, Systems Engineering, or a closely related technical discipline).
• 15+ years of professional experience in engineering, software development, manufacturing, or other relevant technical fields, including at least 5 years in technical leadership roles.
• Active DoD Secret security clearance, with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance
• Demonstrated experience supporting complex technical systems, including system development, software engineering, manufacturing, or integration of advanced technologies.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated ability to effectively engage and coordinate with OSD, Service Program Executive Offices (PEOs), FFRDCs, and other senior technical stakeholders.
• Ability to travel up to 25% in support of program reviews, technical collaboration, and stakeholder engagements.

Bonus Points

• Master's degree or PhD in Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• DAWIA Advanced Certification (or equivalent) in Engineering or Program Management.
• Experience supporting nuclear-capable or strategic missile programs, including development, integration, or sustainment of complex weapons systems.
• Experience with radiation-hardened microelectronics (RadHard) or development of electronics intended for high-radiation or contested environments.
• Familiarity with DoD Major Defense Acquisition Programs (MDAPs) and the DoDI 5000 series, including engineering policy and milestone decision processes.
• Experience participating in or supporting major technical reviews such as SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, or FRR.
• Experience working with federally funded research and development centers (FFRDCs), national laboratories, or defense research organizations.
• Knowledge of microelectronics supply chain risks, trusted foundry programs, or advanced semiconductor development relevant to defense systems.

At JRC we offer...

• A competitive compensation package
• An exceptional employee benefits program, providing support for our team members' well-being and success
• The chance to contribute to a high-profile Department of Defense programs and make a positive impact
• A collaborative work environment where teamwork, creativity, and innovation thrive
• Opportunities for professional growth and development, helping you advance your career