Vice President, Technology

US Conec, Ltd.•Hickory, NC

About The Position

US Conec is seeking a visionary Vice President, Technology to lead the company's technology strategy, innovation roadmap, and next-generation product development within the passive optical interconnect industry. As a key member of the executive leadership team, this role will drive breakthrough technologies, research and development initiatives, and engineering excellence while partnering cross-functionally with product management, operations, manufacturing, and commercial teams to accelerate growth and strengthen US Conec's market leadership.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline
15+ years of experience in fiber optic components, passive optical devices, optical connectivity, or precision optical interconnect manufacturing
Minimum of 5 years in senior engineering, technology, or innovation leadership roles
Deep expertise in optical connector design and industry testing standards
Proven success developing and executing technology roadmaps and innovation strategies
Demonstrated experience leading large-scale engineering organizations and complex technology initiatives
Strong background in new product introduction (NPI) from customer engagement through commercialization and high-volume production
Experience managing multidisciplinary engineering teams across optical design, mechanical engineering, materials, manufacturing processes, and quality/reliability disciplines
Track record of intellectual property development, including patents and technology innovation
Strong business acumen with the ability to align technology investments with organizational goals
Experience managing technology budgets, capital investments, and resource planning
Exceptional leadership, organizational development, and team-building capabilities
Excellent communication, presentation, and executive influencing skills
Proven ability to build collaborative relationships across technical, operational, and commercial functions
Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills

Nice To Haves

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field
Experience with precision polymer ferrule technology and precision molding processes
Background in advanced optical connectivity products and passive optical interconnect solutions
Experience working with global technology organizations and international engineering teams
Expertise in evaluating emerging technologies and translating technical opportunities into business value
Industry experience in adjacent markets such as optical fiber and cable, optical assemblies, or related optical networking technologies
Participation in industry standards organizations, technical committees, or research collaborations

Responsibilities

Develop and execute short- and long-term technology strategies aligned with business objectives, growth plans, and market opportunities
Establish and communicate a clear technology vision that drives innovation, scalability, and competitive advantage
Partner with executive leadership to define technology priorities, investment strategies, and future technical capabilities
Lead enterprise-wide innovation initiatives and foster a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Direct research and development programs focused on next-generation passive optical interconnect technologies and solutions
Identify, evaluate, and commercialize emerging technologies, breakthrough products, and intellectual property opportunities
Define and oversee technology roadmaps that support product development, customer needs, and long-term business objectives
Provide executive leadership for major engineering programs, new product introductions, and technology commercialization efforts
Ensure technology solutions meet performance, quality, reliability, and regulatory requirements
Establish governance standards for technology platforms, engineering processes, and technical operations
Drive operational excellence through process optimization, technology modernization, and continuous improvement initiatives
Build and maintain strategic relationships with customers, suppliers, research institutions, industry organizations, and technology partners
Monitor industry trends, competitive technologies, and market developments to inform strategic planning and innovation priorities
Represent US Conec in customer engagements, technical forums, industry conferences, and strategic partnership activities
Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing engineering, technology, and innovation teams
Support succession planning, leadership development, and organizational capability building across technical functions
Contribute to corporate strategy, budgeting, capital investment planning, and resource allocation as a member of the executive leadership team
Utilize technical insights, market intelligence, and business analytics to support strategic decision-making and technology investments