Head of Launch Systems

About the role

At Long Wall Company, the Head of Launch Systems will architect and execute the end-to-end strategy for our containerized launch systems. This role translates mission needs into robust, scalable hardware and software solutions. You will lead a multidisciplinary team in the design, integration, and test of mass-producible defense platforms that redefine speed and affordability. Your decisions will directly shape how rapidly we can deliver defensive capability to the warfighter. You will own the full lifecycle of critical programs from concept validation through flight qualification. You will foster a culture where rigorous analysis, creative engineering, and operational pragmatism converge. You will serve as the primary technical voice for launch systems across the enterprise and our partnerships. You will ensure every solution we field is battle-tested, verifiable, and ready for immediate deployment. You will champion data-driven processes that compress timelines without compromising safety or reliability.

What you'll do

Define the technical baseline and system architecture for next-generation containerized launch platforms, ensuring alignment with RS1 and GS0 heritage while pushing performance frontiers. Lead the development of mass-producible flight hardware, integrating mechanical, electrical, and software subsystems into modular, scalable configurations that meet urgent operational demands. Establish and enforce rigorous test and verification regimes, from component-level validation through full-up flight tests, to de-risk designs and accelerate delivery. Translate abstract mission requirements into detailed technical specifications, balancing capability, schedule, and cost to deliver solutions that are both effective and economically viable. Build and mentor a high-performing team of engineers and technicians, elevating individual contributions through clear goals, constructive feedback, and hands-on technical leadership. Champion cross-functional collaboration, aligning with programs, engineering, and operations to resolve complex technical challenges and unblock critical path items. Drive the qualification and certification of flight hardware, interfacing with regulatory and customer stakeholders to ensure compliance and operational acceptance. Implement continuous improvement initiatives that streamline processes, eliminate waste, and embed lessons learned into the DNA of every production cycle. Own the integration of cutting-edge technologies, such as advanced materials, autonomous control, and real-time data analytics, into deployable defense systems. Champion the adoption of digital engineering tools and model-based practices to reduce risk, improve traceability, and accelerate iteration across the program lifecycle. Forecast resource needs, manage supplier relationships, and safeguard technical integrity across the supply chain to sustain production velocity. Champion innovation while maintaining unwavering discipline, ensuring that every experiment feeds toward credible, flight-proven outcomes. Act as the central point for launch systems strategy, communicating vision, progress, and trade studies to executive and operational audiences. Champion the Longwall ethos of total ownership, ensuring that every team member understands how their work contributes to mission success.

Requirements

You must hold a Bachelor's degree in engineering or a closely related technical field, with a graduate degree strongly preferred. You must have a minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in aerospace, defense, or related high-technology sectors. You must have direct experience with launch vehicle or missile system development, from concept through flight qualification. You must have deep expertise in mechanical design, structural analysis, and integration of complex electro-mechanical systems. You must possess advanced knowledge of propulsion, avionics, and flight software architectures relevant to tactical defense systems. You must have a proven track record of managing programs from early studies through production and fielding. You must demonstrate mastery of requirements engineering, trade studies, and system engineering best practices. You must have experience with digital engineering, model-based systems engineering, and simulation-driven design. You must have a history of building and leading multidisciplinary teams in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments. You must be a U.S. citizen or eligible for U.S. security clearance, given the nature of our defense work. You must have a strong understanding of test and evaluation methods, including range operations, data telemetry, and post-flight analysis. You must be comfortable interfacing with government customers, program offices, and acquisition frameworks. You must exhibit exceptional problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate ambiguity and make sound decisions with incomplete information. You must communicate effectively at all levels, translating technical complexity into clear, actionable guidance for diverse audiences.