Applications Engineering Manager Jobs in Reston, VA

Job Details: Title: Engineering Manager Location: Sterling, Virginia (On-site) Duration: Fulltime Mode Of Interview: Virtual followed by In-Person PURPOSE OF THE JOB: As an US Citizent, an Engineering Manager is responsible to lead and oversee both production, research, and development (R&D) engineering teams specializing in mechanical, chemical, and materials science engineering. This role requires a strategic thinker with a strong technical background, excellent leadership abilities, and a passion for driving innovation and operational excellence. The Engineering Manager will be responsible for managing the engineering team and delivering both short-term operational goals and long-term development objectives. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Personnel Management: Provides direct management of the engineering team Communicates short-, near-, and long-term objectives (and metrics) to the team and establishes methods of accountability Provide hands-on leadership, coaching, and training to enhance team skills, knowledge, and performance Conducts performance reviews, sets goals, and provides regular feedback to team members Promotes a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement Engineering Management: Works with Operations Managers to optimize manufacturing processes to enhance productivity, quality, and cost-efficiency Guides R&D teams in developing new products, materials, and technologies aligned with company strategy Plans and executes schedules and resource needs to support customer requirements Manages department forecasts, budgets, production schedules, and personnel plans, tracking actuals vs goals Analyzes operational data, such as production costs/schedules and process flow to determine efficient utilization of resources. Utilizes data to produce operational improvements Collaborates with operations teams to troubleshoot and resolve production challenges Oversees prototype development, testing, and scale-up processes Identifies and procures necessary tools, technologies, and equipment to support and expand production and R&D activities Reviews engineering work products (designs, manuals, reports, etc.) for accuracy prior to submission Strategic Planning and Execution: Develops and executes engineering and business development strategies to meet company goals and growth targets Works with Program Managers to manage project portfolios, ensuring resources are effectively allocated to high-priority initiatives Compliance and Safety: Ensures all engineering activities comply with regulatory, safety, and environmental standards, such as sensitive information handling requirements, OSHA standards, etc. Works closely with EHS to promote a culture of safety and sustainability across teams Business Development and Market Alignment Develops and writes proposals, including technical approaches, management plans, and cost estimates Writes projects reports, as needed Maintains currency in new technologies and potential applications, applying this understanding to product and business development efforts Assists with initiatives to commercialize new products and technologies, ensuring alignment with market trends and customer requirements Occasionally represents the company at industry events, conferences, and trade shows to enhance visibility and network Other related responsibilities and duties as assigned. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Master's degree in mechanical engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science/Engineering, or a closely related engineering field may substitute experience) 10+ years of managerial experience End-to-end supply chain ownership experience (planning, sourcing, logistics, production support) Strong ERP/MRP systems experience (SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, etc.) Proven negotiation, contract management, and cost‑reduction achievements SKILLS REQUIREMENTS: Commitment to maintaining confidentiality is critical Leadership & Team Impact: Accountability, team player commitment, strategic thinking Service Delivery: Excellent communication skills, interpersonal skills & professionalism, the ability to anticipate and respond to needs, openness to change, attitude of continual improvement, strong organizational skills Job knowledge: Exceptional leadership and management skills, risk management, effective planning, financial literacy, strong written communication skills Autonomy, Judgment & Decision-Making: Prioritization & time management skills, creativity & critical problem-solving, ability to plan strategically Relationship management, especially at managerial and stakeholder levels Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills Excellent organizational and time management skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. MS Office Suite Preferred Qualifications: Experience with specialty materials (advanced alloys, ceramics, composites, engineered metals, polymers, chemicals) Background with long-lead, sole-source, or regulated materials Experience in aerospace, defense, medical, energy, or other quality-intensive environments APICS CPIM / CSCP, CPSM, or Six Sigma certification Lean manufacturing or CI experience Knowledge of export controls and compliance frameworks Master’s degree or MBA SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: Engineers WORK ENVIRONMENT: The noise level is usually low to moderate. Work hours will typically be 8+ hour shifts, work hours may depend on project requirements and can include early mornings, evenings, and weekends.