Director, Special Programs and Government Security Solutions

Working at Watlow

Watlow is a global technology and manufacturing leader who provides world class engineering expertise through innovative thermal products and systems, enabling our customers to thrive. We are making a positive impact every day as our solutions enrich the lives of people everywhere. We have been providing breakthrough thermal solutions for over 100 years! Our corporate values guide us uncompromisingly to always do the right thing, continually learn and improve, respect everyone, and lead with service and humility.

At Watlow's Global Headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, we combine a rich legacy with forward-thinking innovation. Founded in 1922 in the heart of St. Louis, Watlow has grown from a small heating element manufacturer into a global leader in thermal systems. Our headquarters is more than just an office, it's a hub for collaboration, advanced engineering, and customer-focused solutions.

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We are hiring a: Director, Special Programs and Government Security Solutions

St. Louis, MO (Hybrid)

Watlow is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Director, Special Programs and Government Security Solutions to lead strategic compliance efforts and strengthen relationships with key government, aerospace, and defense customers. You'll serve as a compliance leader and program steward, driving excellence in project execution and ensuring adherence to laws and regulations across high-security programs, including DFAR/FAR, CUI/CDI/CMMC, DoE/DoD/ITAR, and other restricted-access initiatives.

In this role, you'll leverage compliance and business processes as a competitive advantage, enabling Watlow to scale effectively while managing complex programs. You'll work closely with teams across Business Development, Contracts, Cybersecurity, and Global Trade Compliance to ensure strategic alignment and operational excellence.

What You'll Do:

• Drive Regulatory Compliance: Lead enterprise-wide adherence to government regulations, security requirements, and contract obligations across defense, aerospace, and sensitive programs. Monitor emerging risks and policy trends to proactively mitigate threats.
• Lead Cross-Functional Teams: Guide internal teams to deliver high-quality solutions and services, ensuring alignment with client objectives and strategic priorities. Champion collaboration across Product, Operations, Finance, and Commercial functions.
• Forge Strategic Government Relationships: Build and sustain high-impact relationships with federal, state, and local stakeholders to advance program success and enterprise initiatives.
• Implement Technology & Security Controls: Develop and enforce robust systems for handling controlled information, including access, storage, and transfer protocols, while supporting cross-border collaboration and integrated solutions.
• Oversee Audits & Compliance Programs: Direct internal audits, self-assessments, and external certification processes, driving program maturity and continuous improvement in compliance operations.
• Manage Government Registrations & Programs: Lead enterprise compliance with registrations, procurement systems, licensing, agreements, and foreign military sales. Partner closely with Global Trade Compliance to ensure regulatory alignment.
• Mitigate Risk & Investigations: Lead internal investigations, manage mandatory reporting, and maintain transparent communication to uphold program integrity and accountability.
• Shape Security & Program Strategy: Define and implement enterprise security programs, including NISPOM obligations, ensuring alignment with long-term organizational objectives and operational readiness.

What youll need to succeed?

• Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, or a related field. U.S. citizenship required due to regulatory and clearance requirements
• 10+ years supporting business development, account management, or sales within government and defense sectors in a compliance-focused role
• Proven experience managing large-scale contracts with federal, state, and local agencies. Familiarity with procurement processes, contract vehicles, regulatory requirements, and project management tools (e.g., DPAS)
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain high-level relationships with key stakeholders in government and defense
• Exceptional verbal and written communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally, including to high-risk areas as designated by the U.S. Department of State
• Must be eligible for SECRET or TOP SECRET/SCI clearance in the future

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree or MBA; law degree is a plus
• Experience with NISPOM program management; prior work with DOE, FAA, NIST, NSF, USG agencies, or U.S. national laboratories supporting R&D programs
• Deep understanding of government procurement and defense program compliance frameworks

Benefits: The Watlow Total Compensation Plan

The health, well-being and financial stability of you and your family is a high priority to us.The Watlow Total Rewards Plan includes competitive compensation and a full range of life and career enhancing benefits:

• Annual Incentive Program
• 401(k) plan that includes a company match on your contribution and an annual company contribution that is tied to company performance
• Wellness incentives
• Employee Personal Assistance Program
• Dental, medical, vision and short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Paid holidays, personal time, and vacation
• Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement

Diversity & Inclusion

We proactively embrace diversity in all its dimensions across our company and cultivate a culture of inclusion and forward thinking that respects and reflects each team member's individual strengths, views, and experiences. Watlow takes pride in being an inclusive equal opportunity employer and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Please let us know confidentially if you need or require any special accommodations to participate in our recruiting process by emailing us at accommodations@Watlow.com.