Photonics & EO/IR Systems Strategy Lead

RTX; Tewksbury (MA); Hybrid; USD 173,000 - 329,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Life insurance

Disability insurance

401(k) match

Flexible spending accounts

Flexible work schedules

Employee assistance program

Employee Scholar Program

Parental leave

Paid time off

Holidays

Job summary

RTX seeks a Senior Manager to lead strategy, capture, technology transition, and development of photonics, quantum sensing, EO/IR, and ISR systems. This senior leader will guide multi‑disciplinary teams, execute multi‑million‑dollar portfolios, and drive transition of photonic components from early‑stage R&D to fielded defense products.

The ideal candidate has over 20 years in applied research, revenue growth, DoD/IC engagements, and a track record shaping high‑impact photonics roadmaps.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in physics/photons/optics or related field.
• 20+ years in photonics, EO/IR, sensing, or defense R&D.
• Experience growing a technical business area to at least $10M revenue.
• Experience transitioning photonics/EO/IR tech from R&D to production.

Responsibilities

• Lead Photonics & EO/IR portfolio strategy and roadmaps.
• Oversee teams in photonics, EO/IR sensing, and quantum sensing.
• Drive capture strategies, proposals, and customer engagement with DoD/IC partners.
• Manage revenue forecasting, manpower planning, and portfolio profitability.
• Guide technology transition from R&D to manufacturing and programs of record.
• Build senior relationships with defense primes and government labs.
• Lead principals and scientists; supervise managers and staff.
• Oversee contract execution, performance, and verification methods.
• Manage IP, subcontractors, and governance responsibilities.
• Provide oversight for prototype demos and technical reviews.
• Support ESOP and corporate policy activities as required.

Skills

Leadership of cross-functional teams

Strategic portfolio management

Business development / capture

DoD/IC customer engagement

Education

Ph.D. in Physics, Photonics, Optical Sciences, Electrical Engineering, or related field

Job description

RTX seeks a Senior Manager to lead strategy, capture, technology transition, and development of photonics, quantum sensing, EO/IR, and ISR systems. This senior leader will guide multi‑disciplinary teams, execute multi‑million‑dollar portfolios, and drive transition of photonic components from early‑stage R&D to fielded defense products.

The ideal candidate has over 20 years in applied research, revenue growth, DoD/IC engagements, and a track record shaping high‑impact photonics roadmaps.