PIR R&D Senior Advisor – On-site Defense Tech Leader

Apogee Engineering, LLC; Ohio; On-site; USD 180,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Apogee Engineering, LLC seeks a PIR Research & Development Senior Advisor to provide senior-level expertise in national defense R&D planning, advocacy, and assessment. You will lead technical planning and drive PIR sensor data processing and delivery initiatives in support of NASIC at Wright Patterson AFB, OH.

The role requires extensive DoD/IC program experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to translate complex research into actionable plans and funding proposals.

Qualifications

• Doctorate in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Computer Science, or closely related discipline.
• At least 20 years of relevant work experience; or 16 years with a bachelor’s; or 12 years with a master’s.
• Minimum of 10 years supporting DoD or similar programs/projects.
• Deep knowledge of PIR mission, IR phenomenology, sensor design and characterization, and PIR data/signal processing.
• Demonstrated experience leading large-scale R&D programs and transitioning prototypes into operational environments.
• Strong written and verbal communication; ability to translate complex technical concepts into compelling advocacy products.
• Ability to decompose complex technical requirements into actionable tasks and roadmaps.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage R&D programs for acquisition of sensors, data collection, processing, analysis, and delivery capabilities.
• Define deep technical requirements and system design specifications for PIR R&D initiatives.
• Establish test and evaluation strategies for prototype systems and capabilities.
• Create program milestones, cost estimates, schedules, and contract strategies.
• Lead identification, evaluation, and prioritization of PIR-related R&D initiatives across DoD and IC stakeholders.
• Manage end-to-end R&D program lifecycles from concept through operational transition.
• Coordinate integration of multiple technical workstreams and interdependencies.
• Develop and present R&D program proposals to gain advocacy or funding from sponsors.

Skills

PIR R&D expertise

IR phenomenology

Sensor design

Program management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Doctorate in Physics / Electrical Engineering / Optical Engineering / Computer Science

Job description

Apogee Engineering, LLC seeks a PIR Research & Development Senior Advisor to provide senior-level expertise in national defense R&D planning, advocacy, and assessment. You will lead technical planning and drive PIR sensor data processing and delivery initiatives in support of NASIC at Wright Patterson AFB, OH.

The role requires extensive DoD/IC program experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to translate complex research into actionable plans and funding proposals.