Director - Precision Sensing

The Director - Precision Sensing at HRL is responsible for strategic leadership, overseeing project execution, fostering team collaboration, and driving new business development. Additionally, the director guides technical strategies, manages resource allocation and staffing, ensures successful transitions of technologies, and develops commercialization strategies for new products.

To qualify for the Director - Precision Sensing role at HRL, candidates must have over seven years of leadership experience in applied R&D in industry or government, with a strong background in managing scientific or technology development groups. A PhD in engineering, physics, or a related field is required, but candidates with a master's and significant experience are also encouraged to apply.

The work culture at HRL is collaborative and high-performance, focused on innovation and professional growth. As the Director - Precision Sensing, you will play a critical role in nurturing this culture by supporting career development for scientists, engineers, and managers, fostering teamwork, and encouraging mentorship within the division.

HRL adopts a proactive approach to business development for the Precision Sensing Division. The Director is tasked with identifying customer opportunities, developing new programs, and overseeing rigorous proposal strategies to secure partnerships and contracts across various sectors including aerospace, automotive, and national security.

The base salary range for the Director - Precision Sensing position at HRL is between $204,665 and $262,243, plus bonuses and benefits. Individual pay is determined by factors such as work location, experience, and relevant education. Further details regarding compensation can be discussed during the hiring process.

When answering this question, highlight specific R&D programs you have managed, emphasizing your strategic planning and execution skills. Discuss how you engaged with various stakeholders and ensured project outcomes met or exceeded expectations.

Share your philosophy on leadership and team development. Give examples of mentorship programs or team-building activities you have instituted, emphasizing your commitment to supporting professional growth among your team members.

You should outline a clear strategy that involves collaboration with engineers, market analysis, and customer feedback. Discuss specific instances where you successfully guided technologies through the transition phase.

Describe your methodology for market analysis and investment prioritization. Provide examples of how you've assessed business opportunities and the criteria you used to make decisions.

Explain how you leverage customer insights to inform your strategic direction. Give an example of a time when customer feedback led to a successful adjustment in your plans or project execution.

Provide a specific example where you managed a team conflict, focusing on your conflict resolution skills and emphasis on maintaining a collaborative environment. Discuss the outcomes and lessons learned.

Share your experience in crafting and managing proposals. Cite specific examples of successful grants or contracts you've secured, emphasizing your strategic approach and understanding of federal requirements.

Articulate a clear vision incorporating trends and innovations in precision sensing. Your answer should reflect an understanding of both current technologies and potential future developments.

Discuss the methods you use to stay updated on market trends, industry news, and competitive analysis. Mention any tools or networks you utilize to gather and share information within your team.

Focus on your unique skills and experiences that align with the responsibilities of the role. Highlight your passion for technology maturation, your leadership style, and your commitment to innovation, making a compelling case for your fit within HRL's mission.