Evan’s decades of experience and deep expertise in the defense, intelligence, and security sectors will be a tremendous asset across all of our services including, FRACTION, and Gram Partners.

Since the inception of ClearanceJobs in 2002, Evan has been a leading figure in the recruitment space, particularly within security-cleared professionals. Under his leadership, ClearanceJobs became the top Internet-based career network dedicated to these specialized professionals, offering unmatched insights, data, and analysis on defense, homeland security, and intelligence industries. His work on innovative projects, such as the creation of The Cleared Network—an exclusive platform for secure networking—speaks to his visionary approach to recruitment in specialized industries.

Evan’s background also includes key positions managing technical projects for CACI with the U.S. Navy’s Science and Technology directorate at the Pentagon and Boeing’s Reserve Component Automation System program for the U.S. Army. This experience, combined with his knowledge of software development and IT, provided the foundation for his successful career in recruitment.

The EVONA group provides vertically integrates staffing solutions.

From VC, PE and Family Offices, through Founders and Managers we provide Executive Search to low-cost subscription models which suit every budget and scale. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of human capital services in the aerospace, deep tech and defense sectors. Our brands serve unique and critical needs within these industries:

EVONA is our tried and tested recruiting service for direct and contractor placements. Award winning and original, including subscription monthly fee services to suit scale, paid advertising and sourcing models along with full outsource/RPO.

FRACTION connects fractional executives with companies and investors in the same industries, offering a unique platform for flexible, high-level leadership.

Gram Partners specializes in executive search services, primarily targeting space, defense, and mobility tech sectors, run by ex head of TA from Apple & Space-X.

Evan’s role as an advisor will strengthen our capabilities and reinforce our commitment to innovation and excellence. His strategic insights into the recruitment landscape, particularly within highly specialized and secure sectors, will help us continue building connections that fuel innovation and growth for our clients.

We are excited to leverage Evan’s expertise as we scale our operations and broaden our impact across these critical industries. Please join us in welcoming Evan H. Lesser to the EVONA Group!

Stay connected for more exciting updates as we continue to build the future of recruitment for the world’s most innovative industries and strive to be the next generation human capital services partner for the aerospace, defense & deep tech sectors.

Why GRAM Partners?

Our world is rapidly evolving. Technologies that once seemed futuristic are now reality, and the challenges that accompany this rapid development require visionary leaders. At GRAM Partners, we understand that hiring the right talent isn’t just about filling a role—it’s about securing the future. With our tailored executive search services, leadership development programs, and deep industry expertise, we are uniquely positioned to help organizations thrive in complex and competitive markets.

Our Mission: Empowering innovation and security

GRAM Partners operates at the intersection of innovation and national security, offering bespoke solutions that cater to the unique demands of high-stakes industries. Whether it’s connecting you with the visionary leaders you need or providing strategic consulting services, we are here to help you meet the challenges of tomorrow head-on.

As we continue to expand our reach across the U.S. and global markets, GRAM Partners will remain laser-focused on supporting organizations that are shaping the future. Our commitment is to partner with you in identifying and developing the leadership required to drive the innovations that matter most to our world.

Learn more about GRAM Partners
Discover how our expertise in executive search and leadership development can help your organization thrive. Visit our website to learn more about our services and how we can support your goals.

SALARY COMPARISON

This comparison underlines the importance of considering various regional factors when analyzing salary trends in the aerospace and defense sectors.

LinkedIn provides a snapshot of average salaries across several key states, reflecting broader market trends:

California tops the list with an average salary of $124,700, likely influenced by the high concentration of tech companies and the cost of living.

Texas and Colorado follow, with salaries of $116,500 and $115,800 respectively, both states being significant hubs for aerospace and defense activities.

Texas and California again feature prominently but with significantly higher averages than LinkedIn’s data, at $190,000 and $181,900 respectively, suggesting a strong demand for more specialized roles being filled.

The higher figures from our EVONA placements indicates strong demand and niche specialization, highlighting lucrative opportunities for software engineers willing to work in these high-tech fields:

Washington and Mississippi are the highest, each with an impressive average salary of $200,000. This could be due to specific high-paying contracts or niche roles in these states.

SOFTWARE ENGINEERING SKILLS

ALIGNMENT AND GAPS: While C++, Linux, and SQL show a balanced demand between professionals’ skills and job postings, Java and HTML reveal gaps where professionals may need to pivot towards more in-demand skills like Python.

EMERGING TRENDS: The higher demand for Python underscores a shift towards modern programming practices, emphasizing automation and data-centric roles.

SPECIALIZATION NEEDS: The specific demand for C++ and Linux highlights the sector’s need for specialized skills pertinent to high-performance and secure environments, reflecting the technical demands of aerospace and defense projects.

This analysis provides a roadmap for professionals to align their skill sets with market demands. Emphasizing skills like Python, C++, and Linux can enhance employability in the competitive space sector and aerospace & defense industry, where technical expertise is paramount. Employers, on the other hand, should recognize the evolving landscape and support skill development in these key areas to maintain a robust and capable workforce.

TOP HIRING COMPANIES

ESTABLISHED GIANTS VS INNOVATIVE NEWCOMERS: While LinkedIn’s data points to well-established industry leaders, out EVONA data highlights emerging companies making significant strides in space technology and defense. This contrast underscores the dynamic nature of the industry, with opportunities spanning both traditional and cutting-edge sectors.

DIVERSE OPPORTUNITIES: The range of companies reflects diverse opportunities for software engineers, from working on legacy defense systems with giants like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin to engaging in pioneering projects at Turion Space and Anduril Industries.

FOCUS AREAS: Traditional defense companies often focus on secure communications, advanced weaponry, and aerospace projects. In contrast, newer companies are pushing the envelope in space logistics, AI, and satellite technology, indicating a shift towards more technologically advanced and autonomous systems.

SOFTWARE ENGINEER POSITIONS BY TOP LOCATION (USA)

 

Interested in exploring our Software Engineer roles? Check our jobs. 

Interested in the latest insights and trends transforming space industry talent? Download our whitepaper “Decoding The Talent Trends Reshaping The Space Economy: Q1 2024” today.

 

 

In today’s dynamic job market, engineering roles remain at the forefront of technological and industrial innovation. Whether you are an experienced engineer contemplating a career shift or a newcomer eager to break into the field, these insights offer a glimpse into the current trends and dynamics of the engineering space, showing how you compare against your peers.

The most sought-after Engineering job titles 

The engineer U.S. labor market showcases a variety of highly sought-after roles. Leading the pack are Software Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, or Technicians—roles that we have live on our site if you’re interested in a change. Notably, roles like Electrical Engineer, and Test Engineer also demonstrate significant presence. 

Fastest-growing job titles

Recent trends highlight a significant surge in demand for roles such as Aeronautical Engineer and System Technician, with growth rates reaching up to 1,292.0%.  If you are contemplating a career transition or are keen on these roles, now is the best time to take action. 

Key skills in the spotlight 

It’s common to see many engineers list foundational skills like Software Development, Engineering, and SQL on their profiles. While these are important, they often overlap with job titles and can appear somewhat generic. However, being more specific about your capabilities can truly make your profile stand out. For instance, the less commonly listed skills can highlight your unique expertise and improve your visibility to employers. So, if you’re aiming to differentiate yourself in a competitive job market, consider emphasizing such specific skills that are less common among your peers but highly relevant and sought after by employers.  

Industry dynamics: Where talent is heading 

We’re seeing substantial shifts in the industry, with significant talent inflows into Higher Education and outflows from sectors like Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing. This movement suggests a broadening of opportunities and a potential shift in career preferences within the engineering community. 

What matters most: Valued benefits 

• Compensation remains a top priority, with 72.5% of professionals emphasizing the importance of excellent pay and benefits. At EVONA, we always advocate for transparency in salaries, ensuring that our candidates and employers have clear expectations from the start.  
• Job security is becoming increasingly important, reflecting industry fluctuations and the significance of stable employment in sectors known for contractual and project-based work. 
• We encourage employers to consider offering flexible work options where possible, as this not only attracts top talent but also promotes a more satisfied and productive workforce. Such benefits are crucial in an industry known for its contract-heavy nature and can significantly enhance job satisfaction and retention rates. 

 

Find your next engineering role

If you are looking for new engineering opportunities, we have positions open across various regions: 

• For opportunities in the US, click here. 
• For those based in the EU, check here. 
• For opportunities elsewhere around the world (ROW), visit here. 

All our insights and data are sourced from LinkedIn Talent Insights, providing a comprehensive view of the current engineering job market trends.

The continuation of technological advancements will ultimately revolutionize the world of travel and the tourist industry as a whole.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), online booking, and mobile technology will be the key pillars shaping the tourism industry, empowering travelers with greater choice and control over their journeys.

 

AI: Personalized and Efficient Experiences

AI is poised to enhance traveler experiences, providing seamless interactions and instant support through chatbots and virtual assistants. These intelligent tools will cater to travelers’ queries and concerns, offering assistance at any time and from any location.

Personalization will be the hallmark of AI-driven travel, as smart algorithms analyze user preferences and behaviors to tailor travel recommendations. From suggesting destinations aligned with individual interests to crafting custom travel itineraries, AI will create personalized and efficient travel planning experiences.

AI-powered data analytics will provide valuable insights into customer preferences and trends, leading to the development of innovative travel offerings.

Online Booking: Streamlined and Convenient

The ease of online booking will continue to revolutionize travel planning, providing travelers with a hassle-free experience. Advanced booking platforms and mobile apps will offer a vast array of accommodation options, transportation choices, and activity packages at their fingertips.

AI integration into booking engines will streamline the process, learning from users’ preferences to present the most relevant options. With user profiles securely stored online, booking flights, accommodations, and tours will become a one-click process, minimizing administrative tasks and maximizing the time spent on the journey.

 

Mobile Dependency: The Ultimate Travel Companion

Mobile phones are the source of interconnectivity and are depended on every day for work, socials, information, and an escapism through different varieties of apps such as, music, podcasts, TikTok, Instagram, twitter, games, etc… the list truly is endless, but the bottom line is we are a generation that depends on their phones.

However, mobile phones can only enrich every aspect of the travel experience. Real-time information, flight updates, weather forecasts, and local event listings will be readily available through travel apps.

Augmented reality navigation apps will offer interactive and informative experiences, guiding tourists through unfamiliar cities and historical sites. Mobile payment solutions will make transactions seamless and secure, eliminating the need for multiple credit cards or cash while traveling.

With the continuous expansion of 4G and 5G networks, mobile data connectivity will become faster, more reliable, and more accessible in even the most remote destinations. This enhanced connectivity will empower tourists with real-time access to travel information, interactive maps, augmented reality guides, and personalized recommendations on their mobile devices.

Mobile data has become a crucial way to stay connected with loved ones while traveling, making it easier for people to relocate or extend their trips. With the rise of remote work, individuals can now work from anywhere they want, thanks to the changes in the workplace and people’s preferences for more flexible arrangements. As a result, mobile data enables a dynamic lifestyle, allowing people to balance work and leisure while enjoying thrilling adventures and exploration.

 

Accessibility and Choice: Empowering Travelers

Advancements in technology will make travel more accessible and diverse. Supersonic and electric aircraft developments will increase the accessibility of air travel, connecting even remote destinations.

The tourism industry will adapt to changing preferences, catering to niche and adventure tourism. Travelers can expect eco-friendly getaways and immersive cultural exchanges.

The future of tourism promises to be an era of endless possibilities…

Driven by technological innovations that prioritize customer-centric experiences. AI, online booking, and mobile technology will empower travelers with greater control over their journeys, offering personalized and convenient solutions.

 

As the tourism industry embraces these technologies, preserving the authenticity of travel experiences will be crucial. The seamless integration of AI, online booking, and mobile dependency will create a dynamic, accessible, and personalized industry, providing unforgettable adventures for every traveler.

Welcome to another edition of our “Spotlight On” series where we get up close and personal with the people who make EVONA tick. This time, we’re chatting with Chris Watson-Bell, our Bearded Recruiter, with 2.5 years under his belt at our company, Chris has become a cornerstone of our recruitment efforts, particularly in the vibrant space economy sector.

His approach goes beyond traditional recruitment by emphasizing cultural fit and leadership qualities alongside necessary skill sets, with a knack for seeing the potential in people and a deep understanding of our clients’ needs, he helps carve out spaces where both can thrive.

Join us as Chris shares advice for those transitioning into the space economy field, and reveals his passions outside of work.

 

Chris, could you give us a snapshot of what your day-to-day role at EVONA entails?

Recruitment. That’s probably too short of an answer. I spend my days speaking to people either within the sector or looking to break into the sector. I’m currently working on 2 big projects for clients within Europe going through growth phases.

What are some of the key challenges you encounter when finding the perfect candidates for roles in the space economy, and how do you navigate these challenges?

Personally, I don’t buy the adage of there being ‘perfect candidates.’

Of course, every role has key skills people need to have but beyond that, it’s really getting to know the candidate & client, and seeing where people can add value beyond the hard skills. This can be with culture fit/add, eagerness to learn, or having great leadership skills to bring out the best of people already within the business.

Based on your experience, what roles are currently the most in-demand? 

• Any sales roles – it’s great building products but unless someone can demonstrate/sell the benefits your company isn’t going to make money to grow.
• GNC/AOCS Engineers.

What advice would you give to someone who is looking to shift their career towards the space economy?

• Connect with people in the field – me included
• Attend Space-related events.
• Show/share your passion for the sector wherever you can.

Outside of your professional life, how do you recharge? Do any of your hobbies or passions influence how you approach your role as a recruiter?

Outside of work I’m a big football fan both playing (badly) & watching (quite often through my fingers) my team Crystal Palace. Maybe this influences my job as supporting a not-so-big team you get used to disappointment (haha). Also, I spend a lot of time with my wife & my big ginger cat Cheeto!

Looking for new opportunities? Explore our job board

 

 

 

In this edition of our “Spotlight On” series, we turn our attention to the operational heartbeat of EVONA, exploring the multifaceted world of operations through the lens of Natasha, our Operations Executive.

Having been promoted to this pivotal role within the company, Natasha embodies the innovative drive that pushes our team forward in the fast-evolving space economy.

Join us to hear Natasha talk about her everyday challenges and achievements, her path into the space industry, and her advice for those looking to enter the field. Learn what drives her passion and commitment, at work and beyond.

Natasha, could you give us a snapshot of what your day-to-day role as an Operations Executive at EVONA entails? 

It can vary massively from day to day, which is what keeps the job interesting to me and keeps me on my toes. Some days I am doing event planning trips around the world and other days I am working on internal projects, like PowerBI candidate/client reports or project managing new product launches. At the moment I am working on a lot of reporting/data-led projects for the team to help enable them to make data-driven decisions.

Can you share with us how you ended up working at EVONA and what drew you to the space staffing sector?  

Initially, I was drawn in by the space industry, I thought it would be an interesting area to work in. Once I had visited the office, I was drawn in by the buzz – I found the 4 Co-Founders very inspiring and knew that the values of the company aligned closely with mine. 

What keeps you motivated, and can you share a moment or achievement at EVONA that you’re particularly proud of?

I find working in an innovative environment very motivating, I love that we are encouraged to think outside of the box and bring unique perspectives to the table. I find this very energising and keeps me excited to be at work. I would say that the achievement I am most proud of is recently getting promoted to Operations Executive. It always feels good to know that you are valued and appreciated – it has also opened up a new career path for me and a chance to understand the operational side of the business, which is something I am interested in. 

If you could offer a piece of advice to someone aspiring to enter the space economy staffing sector, what would it be? 

Entering the space economy staffing sector is both exciting and challenging, given the fast-paced development of the Space Economy. I believe that the best bit of advice I could offer someone is to always be adaptable and willing to learn. This way you can excel by staying on top of the latest trends and technologies, be resilient in the face of change, and evolve with the company.

Finally, beyond the office, what are some of your passions or hobbies? 

Usually I am hanging out with my friends, going to festivals/music events, or walking my dog – Outside of that I enjoy travelling and experiencing different cultures as much as I can. 

 

Looking for new opportunities? Explore our job board