Director, R&D Operations

Photonic Inc.; British Columbia; On-site; CAD 184,000 - 253,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company is seeking a strategic leader to drive R&D operations and enhance productivity. This role involves managing a collaborative team, optimizing processes, and supporting product development in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in operations leadership, a strong financial background, and a passion for innovation. Join a dynamic team that values collaboration and continuous improvement while redefining the future of technology. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in quantum technology within a supportive and inclusive culture.

Benefits

Life Insurance

Extended Health Benefits

Dental Insurance

Long Term Disability

Flexible Spending Account

Equity Opportunities

Qualifications

• 10+ years of leadership experience in operations within R&D or technology.
• Strong financial acumen and expertise in process improvement methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead operations planning and optimize processes for R&D initiatives.
• Oversee budgeting and resource allocation for operational functions.

Skills

Leadership

Operational Strategy

Process Improvement

Financial Management

Problem Solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Master's Degree in Engineering

Master's Degree in Operations Management

Tools

Lean Methodology

Six Sigma

Job description

Director, R&D Operations

Department: Operations

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: British Columbia, Canada

Compensation: The base annual salary range for this full-time role is between $184,000 to $253,000. This range reflects the minimum and maximum target range for new hire base salary across all Canadian locations. Actual compensation may vary outside of this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's qualifications including relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, and business needs. Base pay is only one part of the total compensation package. Full time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Description

Photonic is looking for a strategic and results-driven operations leader passionate about advancing innovation. In this role, you will lead a highly collaborative and multi-disciplinary team of managers, engineers, technicians and operators. Your responsibilities include management and technical leadership of operations planning; Photonic’s flow of material, system build, system commissioning and systems operations; Photonic’s test and assembly of opto-electronic silicon chips.

The Director of R&D Operations plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of Photonic by overseeing day-to-day operations, optimizing processes, and supporting research and product development teams. This position is responsible for coordinating cross-functional activities, managing resources, and implementing operational improvements to enhance productivity and innovation. The ideal candidate is a hands-on problem solver who thrives in a fast-paced, research-driven environment.

Please include a cover letter with your resume (in one file) describing how you would be a great fit at Photonic and what attributes you could bring to our growing team.

WHAT WE NEED YOU TO DO

Operational Leadership & Strategy

• Develop and implement operational strategies that support R&D initiatives and business growth.
• Drive quality, operational efficiency, and scalability across R&D.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure and optimize operational performance.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align operations with corporate objectives.

R&D and Product Development Support

• Ensure R&D projects have the necessary resources, infrastructure, and processes to succeed.
• Work with research teams to streamline product development timelines and improve go-to-market strategies.
• Identify and implement best practices for accelerating innovation while maintaining regulatory compliance.
• Develop partnerships with machine shops, contract manufacturers and suppliers to support rapid prototyping and sub-system assemblies.

Process Optimization & Compliance

• Oversee process improvements to enhance productivity and reduce operational bottlenecks.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations, quality standards, and intellectual property policies including ISO certification.
• Lead risk management efforts to safeguard company assets and research outcomes.

Financial & Resource Management

• Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and cost management for operational functions.
• Optimize resource allocation to balance innovation with fiscal responsibility.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality or innovation.

People & Culture Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing operational teams.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Identify training opportunities to enhance employee skills and operational efficiency.

Technology & Infrastructure Oversight

• Assess and implement technologies that improve operational processes and research capabilities.
• Ensure the company’s facilities, labs, and IT systems support R&D and business needs.
• Drive digital transformation initiatives to enhance data-driven decision-making and use of AI.

WHAT YOU BRING TO OUR TEAM

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• 10+ years of leadership experience in operations, preferably within an R&D, technology, or innovation-driven environment.
• Proven track record of optimizing business operations and scaling organizations.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets and operational costs.
• Expertise in process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma).
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements in R&D, manufacturing, or product development industries.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

An exceptional candidate will bring:

• Experience working with government-funded R&D programs or grants.
• Familiarity with intellectual property management and technology commercialization.
• Experience in a high-growth or startup environment.

WHY YOU SHOULD WORK WITH US

• Get involved with a quantum startup company set to redefine computing.
• Work closely with some of the brightest innovators in quantum technologies.
• Enjoy a fast-paced and fun environment where you can try new things while solving innovative challenges every day.
• Inclusive company culture.
• Competitive salary, benefits (including life insurance, extended health, dental, long term disability, and a flexible spending account), and potential upside.

The description above is what we think an ideal candidate would look like for this role. At Photonic, we understand that everyone has a different work and life journey. If you feel your experience is close to what we've described, but you might not meet all the requirements, please still apply! We are also committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We embrace and encourage our employees’ differences, knowing that these very differences inspire innovation and build better teams. If there are any accommodations our team can make throughout our hiring process, please let us know.