Director, R&D Operations

Photonic; Coquitlam; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Photonic is seeking a Director of R&D Operations to lead a dynamic team in a quantum startup environment. This role focuses on optimizing operations, supporting R&D, and driving innovation. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in operations leadership, strong financial skills, and a passion for technology. Join us to redefine computing and work with some of the brightest innovators in the field.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Benefits including life insurance, extended health, and dental

Flexible spending account

Inclusive company culture

Qualifications

• 10+ years of leadership experience in operations, preferably in R&D or technology.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets.
• Expertise in process improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma).

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational strategies supporting R&D initiatives.
• Oversee process improvements to enhance productivity.
• Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing operational teams.

Skills

Leadership

Problem Solving

Process Improvement

Financial Acumen

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Management

Job 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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