Sr R&D Engineer - job 4 of 4

As a Senior R&D Engineer at General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems in Bothell, you will be responsible for leading product development and executing test engineering activities for Precision Guidance Technologies. This includes conducting research and development activities, planning test campaigns, and summarizing findings to both internal and external stakeholders. Your role will involve applying engineering principles to ensure projects stay on time and within budget while developing crucial technical documentation.

To apply for the Senior R&D Engineer position at General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, candidates typically need an Associate's Degree in general or specialized Engineering along with 5-7 years of relevant experience. A Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Aeronautical, or Electrical Engineering is preferred, and those with a Master's Degree in Engineering stand out even more. A solid understanding of engineering principles and proven experience in planning successful test programs for aerospace products are also essential.

Senior R&D Engineers at General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems must possess strong analytical skills and problem-solving abilities. Knowledge of engineering principles, particularly in thermal and structural engineering, is crucial. Additionally, proficiency in tools such as Creo, Windchill, and Jira is important, as is the capability to manage changing priorities effectively while maintaining high standards of integrity and ethics.

At General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems in Bothell, the work environment for a Senior R&D Engineer is dynamic and collaborative. You'll be surrounded by a skilled team that values innovation and creativity. The position requires both independent work and collaboration with cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives, making it a great opportunity for those who thrive in a team-oriented atmosphere.

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems is committed to the growth and development of its employees, including Sr R&D Engineers. The company provides access to extensive resources, professional development programs, and educational assistance. You will also have opportunities to engage in a diverse range of projects, further enhancing your skills and experience in the aerospace field.

When answering this question, highlight specific projects you've worked on that involved test engineering. Discuss the methodologies you employed, any challenges you faced, and how you achieved successful results. Be prepared to detail the tools and techniques you used to analyze test data and confirm compliance with design specifications.

To effectively respond to this question, explain your approach to prioritization, perhaps using specific examples from your previous work. Mention any tools or strategies you use to manage your time and keep track of deadlines, which will demonstrate your organizational skills and ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment.

In your response, outline the key engineering principles that are relevant to the role of a Senior R&D Engineer, such as thermal dynamics, structural analysis, and fluid dynamics. Provide examples of how you have applied these principles in past projects to drive product development and testing.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response. Describe the specific challenge, your role in addressing it, the actions you took to resolve the issue, and the positive outcome that resulted. This approach can demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to handle adversity.

Discuss any project management tools or techniques you've used to monitor progress and expenses. You might mention regular updates, milestone tracking, and team communication as essential components to ensuring successful project delivery.

When responding, list software tools you're experienced with, such as Creo, Windchill, and Jira, along with any others that might be relevant. Share examples of how you've used these tools to enhance the development process or streamline project execution.

Focus on the interpersonal skills that facilitate teamwork in an engineering environment. Share your experiences working within interdisciplinary teams and how you ensure effective communication and collaboration towards common goals, showcasing your ability to work well with others.

Explain your approach to data analysis, including any statistical methods or software you utilize. Highlight how you interpret data trends, compare them against requirements, and make recommendations based on your findings, which emphasizes your analytical skills.

Share a specific instance where you identified inefficiencies in a testing process and discuss the steps you took to improve it. This could involve process redesign, tool implementation, or team training, and should focus on the measurable impact of your changes.

Convey your enthusiasm for the role by discussing your alignment with GD-OTS's mission and values. Highlight how your distinct skills and experiences make you a strong fit for the organization and how you are particularly excited about contributing to meaningful projects that support national defense.