Position Overview:
We are seeking an experienced R&D Manager to lead a growing, multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists focused on advanced energy systems and materials innovation. This role will drive programs from early-stage research through manufacturing and commercialization, translating complex scientific concepts into scalable, real-world products.
The ideal candidate is a strong technical leader with a proven ability to guide teams, develop new materials and formulations, and bring products from concept to market. R&D Managers are responsible for aligning innovation with business objectives while ensuring successful execution across the full product lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop a cross-functional R&D team across multiple engineering disciplines
- Drive full product lifecycle: concept, formulation, prototyping, testing, scale-up, and commercialization
- Develop and optimize materials, formulas, and processes involving metals, alloys, and composites
- Transition research into manufacturing, ensuring scalability and performance
- Define R&D strategy, manage programs, budgets, and timelines
- Collaborate with leadership, engineering, and production teams to bring new technologies to market
- Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards
Key Skills
- Technical leadership and team development
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Deep understanding of product development and manufacturing
- Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration
Required Qualifications:
- PhD required in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- U.S. Citizenship required
- 8+ years of post-PhD experience in a manufacturing or applied technology environment (e.g., national labs, defense, space, government, or advanced tech industries)
- Experience developing formulas, materials, or processes for manufacturable products
- Background researching/creating formulas for radioactive or nuclear materials
- Proven leadership experience managing R&D teams delivering tangible products
- Track record of taking programs from concept through production and commercialization
Preferred Experience
- Background in energy generation, advanced power systems, or radioisotopes
- Expertise in metals, alloys, and composite materials
- Experience scaling lab innovations into full manufacturing environments