Chief Scientist - Optics

STR is seeking a Chief Scientist to work across the company to develop a cohesive strategy and provide direction, technical oversight and review across the portfolio of sensing and counter‑sensing programs, particularly in the development of new optical sensing concepts, architectures, active and passive systems and novel processing. The role will also involve applying expertise across STR sensing portfolios, including RF, biological and acoustic sensing, to develop strategies, conceive new research programs and provide roadmaps to fielding key capabilities.

In addition, the Chief Scientist will lead customer engagements across the military and intelligence communities to develop new program concepts, ideas and proposals.

The position will have a significant and immediate impact on our national security by leveraging capabilities, expertise and experience from across STR. The Chief Scientist will help the company build out a talented multi‑site team and will be responsible for all aspects of the business process, working closely with other leaders. Responsibilities include technical marketing, business development, proposal writing, recruiting, program execution and staff mentoring, as well as system integration, field testing and mission support.

• Technical marketing to existing and potential customers
• Technical proposal development (idea generation, writing, reviewing)
• Creating innovative solutions to challenging sensing/counter‑sensing problems
• Leading teams to design, develop, implement, test and analyze solutions to national security problems
• Serving as primary technical point of contact for specific customers and offices
• Travel to various STR and customer locations

• Experience working with the defense and intelligence communities on sensor and signal processing related technology
• Entrepreneurial spirit eager to engage in technical marketing and business development
• Proven track record in writing and winning technical proposals
• 15+ years of relevant experience in the field
• Background and education in electrical/computer engineering, computer science, aeronautical/aerospace engineering, mathematics or physics
• Experience leading technical teams on advanced R&D programs (e.g., Air Force, Navy, Army, DARPA, IC research projects)
• Experience developing innovative sensing solutions with new sensors and/or algorithms
• Motivated collaborator and effective communicator to both technical and non‑technical audiences
• Active Security Clearance at the TS level (US citizenship required)

Full‑time salary range: $265,000 – $360,000. Salary offers are based on experience, education, training, key skills and prevailing market conditions.

STR is an equal‑opportunity employer. We are fully dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidate regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any portion of the employment process, email us at appassist and provide your contact info.

Pursuant to applicable federal law and regulations, positions at STR require employees to obtain national security clearances and satisfy the requirements for compliance with export control and other applicable laws.