What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Research and Development position at BARRETT?
Director of Research and Development
Director of Research and Development
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Description
Barrett Firearms is seeking a visionary and results-driven Director of Research & Development (R&D) to lead our product design initiatives and drive innovation across our military and commercial firearms lines. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Operations, this senior leadership role oversees a talented team of engineers and technicians responsible for the design, prototyping, testing, and technical documentation of new firearms and accessories.
As a key contributor to Barrett’s product development lifecycle, the Director of R&D will guide the transformation of ideas into market-ready products, ensuring every new system is innovative, reliable, and compliant. Working in close collaboration with the Senior Director of Engineering, you will ensure a seamless transition from concept to production, while maintaining a strong focus on applied research and technical excellence.
About the Role
- Lead the design of new firearms and accessories, ensuring reliability, manufacturability, and compliance.
- Manage and mentor the R&D team, including designers and test engineers to develop innovative, cost-effective products aligned with end-user needs and Barrett’s strategic goals.
- Provide guidance, coaching, and performance feedback to direct reports.
- Manage early-stage development: requirements gathering, concept development, CAD modelling, prototyping, testing, and validation.
- Collaborate with Senior Director of Engineering to apply design-for-manufacturing principles throughout development.
- Ensure all designs meet internal standards, user requirements, and regulatory compliance (ITAR, NFA, etc.).
- Coordinate with Program Managers on timelines, milestones, and budgets.
- Approve engineering change orders (ECOs) related to product design.
- Lead applied research in materials, recoil systems, weapon integration, and advanced technologies.
- Identify emerging technologies to support future capabilities.
- Collaborate with academic institutions, labs, and government partners.
- Support patent filings and the protection of intellectual property and inventions.
- Travel, inclusive of international travel, may be required.
- All other duties as directed.
About You:
With exceptional leadership and analytical skills, you thrive in a dynamic, innovation-driven environment and enjoy guiding cross-functional teams toward breakthrough solutions. You have a passion for advancing firearms technology and a relentless drive to deliver high-performance, reliable products that exceed customer and industry expectations.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, required.
- Master’s Degree in Engineering or Business, preferred.
- Post-hire training in DPAS and SolidWorks, required.
- 10–15 years in an engineering environment, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
- Direct experience in firearms design and manufacturing, required.
- Experience with U.S. government contracts and ammunition design, preferred.
- Deep knowledge of engineering principles (mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science).
- Expertise in firearm design and defense product development.
- Advanced proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks preferred) and GD&T.
- Familiarity with ASME, ISO, and ASTM standards.
- Strong leadership, coaching, and team-building skills.
- Experience in high-mix production or OEM environments (preferred).
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word, Project).
- Demonstrated ability to learn new tools and systems quickly.
- Be authorized to receive, handle, and transmit defense-related technical data in compliance with U.S. export and firearms laws.
- Meet all federal and state legal qualifications to possess and work with firearms under the Gun Control Act and related legislation.
- Maintain eligibility to work with firearms under state and federal guidelines.
What makes Barrett an exceptional workplace?
Our people are our greatest asset and we are committed to providing our employees with a supportive and family-like work culture, accompanied by a variety of attractive benefits including:
- A flexible and adaptable work style.
- Meaningful recognition and bi-weekly pay cycles.
- Ongoing growth through learning, mentoring, training and career progression opportunities.
About Us
Barrett is a global leader in large-caliber rifle design and manufacturing, proudly headquartered in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. For over 40 years, we’ve been at the forefront of innovation, starting with Ronnie Barrett’s revolutionary Model 82, which earned praise from the U.S. Army and set the standard for modern firearms.
Our products serve civilian sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the U.S. military, and over 80 allied nations. As part of the NIOA Group, we continue to push the boundaries of precision, performance, and innovation.
At Barrett, we don’t just build firearms—we craft solutions that stand the test of time and exceed expectations. "There’s always a better way" is our mantra, guiding us to continuously improve and evolve our designs to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
If you are seeking a new challenge and would enjoy the opportunity to work in a fast paced and customer focused business, click on the APPLY NOW button and submit your application.
For further information please visit https://barrett.net/ and https://www.nioa.com.au/
Additional Screening
By applying for this role, you accept that the following checks will occur for the successful candidate:
- Background Checks
- Pre-employment physical
- Drug & Alcohol Testing
- Permanent working rights and availability to work in the United States
This position is currently accepting applications.