Project Engineer – Drive Mission-Critical Success on Advanced Defense Aviation Programs
PDS Tech Commercial | Partnering with a Leader in the Aviation Industry

Location: Berkeley, MO
Job Type: Full-Time Consultant (12-Month Contract)
Schedule: Monday – Friday | First Shift | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Pay Rate:Starting at  $65.45 per hour

Lead Projects That Power the Future of Aerospace Engineering

PDS Tech Commercial is seeking a highly motivated Project Engineer to support a premier aviation and defense program in Berkeley, Missouri. In this role, you will partner with engineering leaders and cross-functional teams to help drive execution, performance, and operational excellence on a cutting-edge military aircraft program.

This is an exciting opportunity to blend engineering knowledge, project leadership, and business operations expertise while contributing to programs that matter.

What You’ll Do

• Coordinate with key stakeholders to align priorities, schedules, and critical activities
• Support weekly and monthly leadership meetings with metrics, chart preparation, and status reporting
• Maintain program trackers, calendars, and documentation for consistent project execution
• Monitor project performance and assist Control Account Managers with risks, opportunities, earned value metrics, updates, and variance analysis
• Maintain facilities and equipment plans for the engineering team
• Track and report business execution metrics including staffing, on-time release, first pass quality, compliance performance, and governance actions
• Manage updates for Risks, Issues, and Opportunities reviews
• Lead project kickoffs, Basis of Estimate (BOE) creation, and senior leadership reviews
• Coordinate staffing needs, onboarding activities, and workforce planning support
• Help plan and execute employee engagement initiatives including recognition programs, surveys, and team events
• Draft and publish internal communications such as emails, newsletters, and intranet updates tailored to local teams

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or related discipline
• 9+ years of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• 3+ years of project management experience
• 3+ years working in cross-functional environments with employees at all organizational levels, including executive leadership
• 3+ years of experience in business operations and/or process improvement
• 3+ years using Microsoft Office tools and/or project management software
• Experience working directly with engineering teams
• Experience leading or managing projects tied to production engineering, manufacturing engineering, and/or supply chain

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience presenting to executive audiences
• 5+ years of experience collaborating across multiple internal organizations
• Experience formally or informally leading teams, mentoring, and supporting colleagues
• Background in program management, compliance, risk management, or finance
• Aerospace, defense, or aviation industry experience
• Strong analytical and organizational skills with a results-driven mindset

Why Join Us

At PDS Tech Commercial, we connect top professionals with opportunities that shape the future of aerospace and defense. In this role, you’ll be part of a high-performing engineering environment supporting one of the most recognized aircraft platforms in the world.

What You’ll Gain:

• Competitive compensation
• Long-term 12-month consulting opportunity
• Exposure to advanced aerospace engineering and defense operations
• Collaborative, high-visibility work environment
• Opportunity to work alongside experienced engineering and program leaders
• Meaningful work supporting national defense and aviation innovation

Take Your Engineering Career to New Heights

If you’re a strategic thinker who thrives in fast-paced engineering environments and enjoys leading projects that make a real impact, this is your next opportunity.

Apply today and join PDS Tech Commercial in shaping the future of aerospace excellence.

This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.                                               
 

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• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.