Director, Defense Applications

IPG Photonics•Huntsville, AL

About The Position

IPG Photonics is the world leader in fiber laser technology, delivering innovative solutions that enable next-generation defense, aerospace, and industrial systems. This role offers the opportunity to shape critical national security capabilities while working at the forefront of photonics innovation. IPG Photonics is seeking a Director of Defense Applications based in Huntsville, Alabama to lead strategy, business development, and technical engagement across U.S. and allied defense markets. This Director role is responsible for expanding IPG’s laser and photonics solutions within defense, aerospace, and national security applications, while serving as a key interface between government customers, prime contractors, and internal engineering and product teams. The ideal candidate combines deep knowledge of defense systems and acquisition processes with strong technical understanding of laser-based technologies and a proven ability to drive growth in regulated, mission-critical markets. Reporting to the Vice President of IPG Defense, the Director will serve as a senior technical and business leader, aligning IPG’s high-power fiber laser technologies with operational requirements for scalable, reliable, and deployable directed energy and C-UAS systems.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field (Master’s degree or PhD preferred)
15+ years of experience in defense, aerospace, or national security markets, with increasing leadership responsibility
Strong understanding of DoD acquisition processes, defense contracting, and program lifecycles
Demonstrated experience working with lasers, photonics, electro-optical systems, or adjacent advanced technologies
Demonstrated experience with RADAR systems including integration, emplacement and operation. Able to be a primary POC between IPG and RADAR system providers.
Demonstrated experience with system of system integration, C3/C4S systems, and weapon system analysis and emplacement
Proven ability to influence senior government and industry stakeholders

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting or leading directed energy, advanced manufacturing, sensing, or aerospace programs
Prior responsibility for P&L, business unit leadership, or major program capture
Existing U.S. security clearance or ability to obtain one
Familiarity with government labs, prime defense contractors, and international defense collaborations

Responsibilities

Define and execute IPG Photonics’ defense applications strategy aligned with business unit growth objectives
Identify and prioritize new defense programs, platforms, and emerging applications for high-power and specialty laser technologies
Serve as a senior subject-matter expert on defense market needs, trends, and competitive landscape
Build and maintain executive-level relationships with DoD, government laboratories, prime contractors, and key integrators
Lead capture strategy for major defense programs, including early-stage requirements shaping and solution positioning
Support proposal development, technical reviews, and customer demonstrations
Translate defense customer requirements into product roadmaps in collaboration with R&D, product management, and manufacturing teams
Guide development and adaptation of laser solutions for defense applications such as directed energy, sensing, advanced manufacturing, and aerospace systems
Ensure solutions meet stringent performance, reliability, and environmental requirements
Define and execute technical requirements for CUAS systems including RADAR and C3S integration. Serve as primary architect and stake holder.
Support technical writing including operator and sustainment manuals and technical proposals
Ensure compliance with ITAR, export controls, security requirements, and applicable government regulations
Support program execution and customer satisfaction throughout the lifecycle of defense engagements
Represent IPG Photonics at technical reviews, industry events, and government forums