Materials Engineering Technical Lead

General Dynamics Land Systems
401(k)
United States, Michigan, Sterling Heights
38500 Mound Road (Show on map)
Nov 13, 2025
About the Role We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Materials Technical Lead to join our dynamic team. This position offers an opportunity to function as a technical leader providing materials expertise within the Engineering organization. You will work closely with cross-functional teams and our customers to ensure the successful development, testing, and implementation of materials solutions that meet our high standards of quality and performance. You will have a significant impact on both new and legacy programs, driving innovation and continuous improvement. Company Information General Dynamics is a successful Fortune 100, global aerospace and defense company, with over 90,000 employees world-wide. General Dynamics Land Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics, has a strong foundation of delivering core engineering and manufacturing capabilities to our clients for military vehicles. Our team is focused on continuous process and productivity improvements that reduce product costs, while increasing troop safety and effectiveness.Land Systems continues to work with the US Armed Forces and its Allies to ensure these vehicles remain survivable, relevant, flexible, affordable and capable of addressing a dynamic threat environment. What We Offer Whether you are starting your career or an experienced professional, we offer a Total Rewards package that is impactful and built for you. Healthcare including medical, dental, vision, HSA and Flex Spending. Competitive base pay, incentive pay that rewards individual and team performance, and comprehensive benefits. 401k Match (6%), immediate vesting Educational Assistance. 9-80 Work Schedule (This position's standard work schedule is a 9/80. The 9/80 schedule allows employees who work a nine-hour day Monday through Thursday to take every other Friday off). Onsite Cafeteria, remodeled with new equipment Fitness Center, and Outdoor fitness track. Responsibilities to Anticipate/Expect: Provide broad and comprehensive materials engineering expertise, including metals, non-metals, coatings, corrosion, and testing methods. Establish technical direction for new and legacy programs through an understanding of contractual requirements and best practices. Collaborate with Program Management, Contracts, Supply Chain, Quality, and Manufacturing on risks, issues, and corrective actions. Monitor, manage, and improve the corrosion control program. Lead the Hazardous Materials management program, including the development of clean alternatives. Support Failure Analysis investigations and develop contract deliverables. Lead strategic continuous improvement efforts to enhance engineering efficiency. Foster a spirit of knowledge sharing through mentorship and the development of knowledge assets. Minimum Qualifications / What you must have Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, or Chemistry. A Master's degree in a technical discipline is strongly preferred. 10+ years of related experience, with a preference for experience in a defense environment. Strong knowledge of materials properties, testing methods, and manufacturing processes. Experience in a laboratory environment is desired. Working knowledge of EPA/OHSA/ISO and other applicable standards. CBRN and HazMat expertise are preferred. Demonstrated collaboration with USG working groups or standards organizations is preferred. Experience engaging with all levels of the organization, from individual contributors to executive leadership. Excellent verbal, written communication, and presentation skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. A strong desire to offer technical mentorship and guidance. A mindset of innovation and continuous improvement. Additional Information Must be able to travel to suppliers and production facilities within the US. This position requires eligibility to obtain a US security clearance. (Non-US Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance) US Citizenship required. If you are passionate about materials science and have a proven track record of leading successful projects, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Join us and contribute to the development of innovative materials solutions that drive our company's success.