Director of Product Development and R&D
About The Position
The Director of Product Development and R&D will be responsible for leading the company's New Product Introduction efforts by fostering the strategic direction and execution of applied R&D and product development. This individual will oversee a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists, manage cross-functional projects, and serve as a key contributor to the company's long-term technical and commercial roadmap. This role bridges marketing with research and engineering to develop market-driven innovative products - transforming early-stage technologies into scalable, manufacturable, and commercially viable solutions for defense, aerospace, space, and industrial clients.
Requirements
- Ph.D. or M.S. in Physics, Optical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline.
- 10+ years of experience in R&D, new product introduction, and technical leadership in an advanced technology company.
- Demonstrated expertise in optical materials, coatings, and imaging systems.
- Experience managing government contracts, particularly in defense and aerospace sectors.
- Strong background in experimental design, risk management, failure mode analysis, systems integration, and technical writing.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.
- U.S. Citizenship required; ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the product development and R&D team across coatings, optical materials, sensors, and instrumentation.
- Assist in performing market studies, customer interviews, and industry surveys to assess user needs and market opportunities to inform product development efforts.
- Develop and execute the product development roadmap aligned with corporate strategy and market needs.
- Translate research insights and emerging technologies into successful products.
- Oversee all phases of new product introduction from concept through development and commercialization.
- Work closely with marketing, engineering, and business development to define user and product requirements.
- Work closely with internal manufacturing and external CMOs to develop and execute new product manufacturing plans.
- Develop multigenerational product plans, managing feasibility, timelines, and deliverables.
- Manage technical risks, design validation, prototyping, and testing processes.
- Direct internal and external research programs in optical coatings, thermal management materials, multispectral imaging, and other advanced technologies.
- Evaluate and incorporate new materials, processes, and methods to maintain technological leadership.
- Secure and manage government and commercial R&D contracts in coordination with the proposals team.
- Collaborate closely with Sales, Marketing, and Program Management to support technical proposals, customer engagement, and new product positioning.
- Interface with key customers and stakeholders to understand technical needs and present solutions.
- Build and mentor a high-performing team of engineers, scientists, and technicians.
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Mandatory attendance at all-hands SOC safety, security and HR meetings.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
