Director of Product Development and R&D

Role details

Company Description

Surface Optics Corporation (SOC) is a specialized engineering and manufacturing company focused on the characterization, control, and application of the optical properties of surfaces. For over 40 years, SOC has supported a wide range of industries with advanced hemispherical and bidirectional reflectance measurement services, custom instrument engineering, and analytical software solutions. The company develops and delivers reflectometers, hyperspectral and multispectral imagers, and surface coating products tailored to demanding technical applications.

Team members work at the intersection of optics, materials, and measurement science, contributing to innovative solutions for customers worldwide.

Position Summary

The Director of Product Development and R&D will be responsible for leading the company's New Product Introduction efforts by fostering the strategic direction and execution of applied R&D and product development. This individual will oversee a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists, manage cross-functional projects, and serve as a key contributor to the company's long-term technical and commercial roadmap. This role bridges marketing with research and engineering to develop market-driven innovative products - transforming early-stage technologies into scalable, manufacturable, and commercially viable solutions for defense, aerospace, space, and industrial clients.

Duties and Responsibilities (Other duties may be assigned)

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead and manage the product development and R&D team across coatings, optical materials, sensors, and instrumentation.
• Assist in performing market studies, customer interviews, and industry surveys to assess user needs and market opportunities to inform product development efforts.
• Develop and execute the product development roadmap aligned with corporate strategy and market needs.
• Translate research insights and emerging technologies into successful products.

Product Development

• Oversee all phases of new product introduction from concept through development and commercialization.
• Work closely with marketing, engineering, and business development to define user and product requirements.
• Work closely with internal manufacturing and external CMOs to develop and execute new product manufacturing plans.
• Develop multigenerational product plans, managing feasibility, timelines, and deliverables.
• Manage technical risks, design validation, prototyping, and testing processes.

R&D and Innovation

• Direct internal and external research programs in optical coatings, thermal management materials, multispectral imaging, and other advanced technologies.
• Evaluate and incorporate new materials, processes, and methods to maintain technological leadership.
• Secure and manage government and commercial R&D contracts in coordination with the proposals team.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Collaborate closely with Sales, Marketing, and Program Management to support technical proposals, customer engagement, and new product positioning.
• Interface with key customers and stakeholders to understand technical needs and present solutions.

Team Development

• Build and mentor a high-performing team of engineers, scientists, and technicians.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Mandatory attendance at all-hands SOC safety, security and HR meetings.

Position Requirements Education/Experience

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Physics, Optical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in R&D, new product introduction, and technical leadership in an advanced technology company.
• Demonstrated expertise in optical materials, coatings, and imaging systems.
• Experience managing government contracts, particularly in defense and aerospace sectors.
• Strong background in experimental design, risk management, failure mode analysis, systems integration, and technical writing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• U.S. Citizenship required; ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Pay: $175,000.00 - $225,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Master's (Required)

Experience:

• R&D, new product introduction, and technical leadership: 10 years (Required)

Location:

• San Diego, CA 92127 (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• San Diego, CA 92127 (Required)

Work Location: In person