VP of Engineering

THE COMPANY

Based in Bloomfield, CT, LiquidPiston, Inc. is an MIT rooted R&D company that develops power-dense, fuel-efficient, low-vibration, and multi-fuel capable combustion engines.

The company is funded by a mix of Venture Capital, Crowdfunding, and DoD contracts.

A comprehensive patent portfolio includes engine architectures, components, and enabling technologies for the world’s most efficient rotary engines. 

LiquidPiston maintains state-of-the-art lab facilities in a 12,000 sq. foot headquarters, including two fully equipped dynamometer cells, engineering offices, and a 4,000 sq. foot machine shop.

THE MARKET

Building on over 15 years of R&D, LiquidPiston provides scalable power solutions to address the needs of the $400B internal combustion engine market, and is a key enabler for emerging mobility technologies including electric cars, urban aircraft, and drones. The company is currently focusing on military and aerospace applications and markets. Longer term plans include entry to the industrial, commercial, marine, UAV, urban mobility, and automotive spaces.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Reporting to the CEO, the Vice President of Engineering will be a key member of the executive team, leading LiquidPiston into the next phase of growth and development as it transitions from R&D into Product Development and Commercialization. As the Engineering leader, the selected candidate must have both the technical and people skills to manage a passionate, high-performance team. The current engineering headcount of approximately 20 is expected to double over the next year.

The VP of Engineering will be responsible for leading and driving engine and generator development programs while providing oversight, technical direction, management, and leadership for designers, analysts, engineers, technicians, machinists, and contractors in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Additional responsibilities include co-authoring technical papers and proposals, as well as preparation for and participation in meeting with existing and potential customers.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

It is expected that the VP of Engineering will have at least a BS in Mechanical Engineering, with an MSME and/or Ph.D. preferred. Ideally, s/he will have a working knowledge of rotary/diesel engine development, heavy fuel engine calibration expertise, and working knowledge of power generation and storage electronics (alternators, batteries, PLC).

Previous experience working with government agencies (DOE, DARPA, etc.) is desirable, as is prior success leading startups or small companies with manufacturing environments. Ideally, the VP of Engineering will be familiar with software including SolidWorks, Labview, Mastercam, Converge, Matlab, GT Suite, ANSYS.

PERSONAL QUALITIES AND CULTURAL FIT

• Excellent team/people skills, with a motivating, collaborative style. Delegates effectively and shares credit where due.
• A quick learner. Can quickly assess the landscape and then prioritize objectives and opportunities. Is decisive.
• Open communicator of ideas and willing to stand behind and support his/her opinions.
• Is proactive vs. reactive. Can foresee potential opportunities and roadblocks.
• Gets excited about the opportunity to transform an industry.
• Strong presentation skills for board, investors, customers, and partners.
• Motivated by a high need for achievement.
• A fast mover with high energy.
• Consensus builder; a good listener.