Job Details
The Engineering Director - Research and Technology is responsible for leading research and development activities in technology areas supporting microgrids, distributed energy resources (DER), renewable energy, hydrogen, geothermal technologies, advanced thermal management, advanced energy systems, advanced power concepts for data centers, circuit protection methodologies, influencing control solutions related to latest AI and blockchain solutions supporting advanced technologies in material science. This role requires a technology leader and strategic thinker with a deep understanding of emerging trends and technologies in the energy sector. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, technical expertise, and a proven track record of successful R&D team development, management, and innovation.
This position will be responsible to build, develop and lead all aspects of the multi-disciplinary R&D organization; including working with the leadership team to develop the strategic research focus and road map that aligns with the corporate vision and objectives. The position will further be responsible for developing the R&D team, development of intellectual property, managing external partners, budgets and schedules. This represents the company's lead role in advancing technology and innovation. Responsible for managing the company s technology plan that will support FTIs product and business growth plans.
Must have technical and financial acumen as it relates to this space, a proven track record of effective team leadership, a process and organizational mindset, a familiarity with R&D processes, R&D documentation, and documentation management, the ability to present to and engage with both technical and non-technical audiences, FMEA, RCA, Continuous improvement tools and techniques, strong communication and interpersonal skills, and effective project management skills, including budgeting and resource allocation.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- Education: Master s degree in Science, Engineering, or related field (PhD Preferred).
- Experience: 15 years in similar role and area of technology. R&D Lab management experience.
- Extensive knowledge of subject technologies and other applicable supportive technologies.
- Experience in leading R&D teams in the energy sector; with a focus on microgrid, DER products, renewable energy, hydrogen, and geothermal technologies.
- Management of a multi-disciplinary R&D organization.
- Development of innovative technology and solutions.
- Strong understanding of all related regulatory frameworks and industry standards related to relevant energy technologies.
- Ability to translate technical innovation into marketable products and capabilities
- Travel: 25-50%
- Work Schedule: This position works between the hours of 7 AM and 5 PM, Monday- Friday. Works a sufficient schedule to meet the expectations of the role.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develops and communicates a clear vision and strategy for the R&D department aligned with the overall company strategy.
- Stays abreast of industry trends, technological advancement, and regulatory changes to ensure the organization remains at the forefront of innovation.
Team Management:
- Leads and mentors a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and researchers.
- Fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence within the team.
- Provides guidance and mentorship to team members, encouraging professional development and growth.
- Ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet quality standards.
- Develops detailed plan, execution, conclusions with final technical recommendations.
- Technical Leadership:
- Provides technical guidance and expertise to the engineering team.
- Develops innovative technologies.
- Evaluates emerging technologies and assess their potential impact on the company's product portfolio, system capabilities and R&D Roadmap.
- Conducts feasibility studies and risk assessments for innovative technologies.
Collaboration:
- Collaborates with product management, product engineering, legal, strategic sourcing, finance, and external regulatory organizations.
- Establishes and maintains partnerships with external R&D organizations including national labs and other public and private research institutions and strategic supplier technology teams.
- Establishes and maintains corporate engagement with technology organizations as lead technologist representing the company.
- Identifies and provides guidance to the executive team on potential technology partnerships.
- Resource Management:
- Prepares and manages the engineering department s budget.
- Designs strategies for future development projects based on available resources.
- Identifies opportunities for collaboration and partnerships to enhance product development capabilities.
Intellectual Property:
- Oversee the creation and protection of intellectual property through patents, trade secrets and other appropriate mechanisms as determined in collaboration with the Legal Department.
- Performs other related duties as required and assigned.