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Director Aerospace Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

The Director ensures that all engineering processes comply with IPC, J-STD, AS9100, and aerospace customer addendums while optimizing manufacturability, quality, cost, and throughput. Key ...

Director of Engineering

Carson City, NV · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

The Director ensures that all engineering processes comply with IPC, J-STD, AS9100, and aerospace customer addendums while optimizing manufacturability, quality, cost, and throughput. Key ...

... aerospace and defense, manufacturing operations, technical program management, business operations, Chief of Staff, or a closely related leadership role. * Direct experience serving as a trusted ...

... aerospace and defense, manufacturing operations, technical program management, business operations, Chief of Staff, or a closely related leadership role. * Direct experience serving as a trusted ...

... aerospace and defense, manufacturing operations, technical program management, business operations, Chief of Staff, or a closely related leadership role. * Direct experience serving as a trusted ...

... aerospace and defense, manufacturing operations, technical program management, business operations, Chief of Staff, or a closely related leadership role. * Direct experience serving as a trusted ...

... aerospace and defense, manufacturing operations, technical program management, business operations, Chief of Staff, or a closely related leadership role. * Direct experience serving as a trusted ...

... aerospace and defense, manufacturing operations, technical program management, business operations, Chief of Staff, or a closely related leadership role. * Direct experience serving as a trusted ...

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Director Aerospace information

See Reno, NV salary details

$25.9K

$134.5K

$353.2K

How much do director aerospace jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for director aerospace in Reno, NV is $134,501.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,088.00 and $154,664.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by a director aerospace when leading multidisciplinary teams?

As a Director of Aerospace, one common challenge is ensuring effective collaboration among teams with diverse specializations, such as engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance. Managing cross-functional communication and aligning everyone toward project goals requires strong leadership and adaptability. Additionally, overseeing complex projects often involves navigating tight deadlines, regulatory requirements, and evolving technologies. Building a culture of innovation while maintaining compliance and operational efficiency is essential to success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director aerospace, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Aerospace, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, project management, and industry regulations, usually supported by an advanced degree and significant leadership experience. Familiarity with aerospace design software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), compliance systems, and certifications like PMP or Six Sigma are typically required. Exceptional strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills set top candidates apart in this high-stakes field. These capabilities are vital for driving innovation, ensuring regulatory compliance, and successfully leading cross-functional teams in a complex and competitive industry.

What does a director aerospace do?

A Director of Aerospace is responsible for overseeing the operations, strategy, and development within an aerospace organization or division. They manage teams of engineers, project managers, and other professionals to ensure projects meet technical, financial, and regulatory requirements. This role often involves collaborating with senior leadership to set goals, develop new technologies, and maintain compliance with safety and industry standards. Directors of Aerospace also play a key role in business development and maintaining client and government relationships.

What is the difference between Director Aerospace vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectDirector AerospaceAerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering, Management experienceBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles, project oversight, strategic planningDesign, analysis, testing, and development of aerospace systems
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, defense contractors, aerospace manufacturersResearch labs, manufacturing firms, government agencies

The main difference between a Director Aerospace and an Aerospace Engineer lies in their responsibilities and focus. Directors oversee projects, manage teams, and set strategic goals, while Aerospace Engineers focus on designing and developing aerospace systems. Both roles require engineering credentials, but Directors typically have additional leadership experience. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path within the aerospace industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace jobs in Reno, NV? The most popular types of Aerospace jobs in Reno, NV are:
What job categories do people searching Director Aerospace jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Director Aerospace jobs in Reno, NV are:
What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Director Aerospace jobs? Cities near Reno, NV with the most Director Aerospace job openings:
Infographic showing various Director Aerospace job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,501 per year, or $64.7 per hour.

Director of Engineering

Rocket EMS

Carson City, NV

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Director of Engineering

Position Summary

The Director of Engineering oversees all process/manufacturing engineering functions within a high-mix, high-reliability PCBA manufacturing environment producing Class 3 aerospace and mission-critical assemblies. This role leads PCBA manufacturing engineering, process engineering, NPI, DFM/DFX, sustaining engineering, and automation/continuous improvement initiatives. The Director ensures that all engineering processes comply with IPC, J-STD, AS9100, and aerospace customer addendums while optimizing manufacturability, quality, cost, and throughput.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

  • Lead and develop a multidisciplinary engineering team (SMT Process, Manufacturing, New Product Introduction, and Automation).
  • Drive engineering strategy aligned with company objectives for quality, cost, yield, and delivery.
  • Serve as the technical authority for IPC-J-STD-001 Class 3, IPC-A-610 Class 3, IPC-7711/7721, and aerospace process controls.

Manufacturing / Process Engineering

  • Own company-wide engineering initiatives across all PCBA manufacturing functional areas, including build readiness reviews and standardization efforts.
  • Ensure process qualification and documentation aligns with J-STD-001 Space & Military Addendum and applicable aerospace customer requirements.
  • Establish and maintain process windows, control plans, PFMEAs, and validation reports.

New Product Introduction (NPI)

  • Lead DFM/DFX reviews, tooling design, stencil strategy, and prototype builds.
  • Oversee creation of travelers, BOM validation, build instructions, and work instructions in compliance with AS9100.
  • Manage engineering change control (ECOs), configuration management, and revision control.

Automation & Continuous Improvement

  • Lead LEAN/CI programs focused on waste reduction, defect elimination, and throughput improvement.
  • Collaborate closely with Quality Engineering to address defects, root cause investigations, and MRB activities.
  • Implement process monitoring, SPC, and industry 4.0 tools.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Work closely with Production, Quality, Program Management, Supply Chain, and SMT departments.
  • Provide engineering support during customer audits, FAIs, PFMEAs, and technical reviews.
  • Partner with external suppliers on polymerics, tooling, fixtures, materials, and new process technologies.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred).
  • 10-15+ years in PCBA manufacturing engineering with at least 10+ years in a leadership role.
  • Deep knowledge of:
    • IPC-J-STD-001 Class 3 & Space/Military Addendums
    • IPC-A-610 Class 3
    • AS9100D
    • IPC-7351, 7711/7721, 2221
  • Experience with aerospace, defense, medical, or other high-reliability electronics.
  • Strong background in SMT (printing, placement, reflow), AOI/AXI, DFM/DFX, Rework, Chemical Wash, Polymerics, and test strategies.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and technical decision-making abilities.
Pay Range
$150,000—$200,000 USD

ITAR/EAR Compliance: Due to the nature of the work performed at Rocket EMS, this position may require access to export-controlled technical data or technology. The successful candidate must be eligible to access such information under applicable U.S. export-control laws or be eligible for any required government authorization.

Rocket EMS will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the California Fair Chance Act. Candidates are not required to disclose criminal history or participate in a background check unless and until a conditional offer of employment has been made. Any final offer of employment may be conditioned on completion of a background check, consistent with applicable law.
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About Rocket EMS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

2011