ESnet Pilots and Prototypes Group Lead

Overview

ESnet is a high-performance scientific network connecting DOE national labs, universities, and research institutions. It enables collaboration on major scientific challenges such as energy, climate, and cosmology. Funded by the DOE Office of Science and operated by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, ESnet provides access to unique research facilities and computing resources.

The Group Leader of ESnet's Pilots and Prototypes Group reports to the Planning and Innovation Department Head and leads efforts to develop new network services through strategic pilots. The role includes advising senior management on technology strategy aligned with ESnet's mission. This position requires strong technical expertise, leadership, and communication skills, along with experience managing projects, processes, and teams. You will collaborate with national and international stakeholders, supervise 5-10 staff, and oversee budgets and operations in alignment with ESnet goals.

We are looking for a candidate who will contribute to ESnet's mission by guiding development of new services and ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.

• Lead and manage the Pilots and Prototypes Group, including staffing, mentoring, and performance management.

• Define technical engagement strategies aligned with ESnet's mission.

• Oversee pilots and prototypes, guiding development of new services.

• Set group priorities and manage projects in line with ESnet strategy.

• Foster an inclusive, innovative, and policy-compliant work environment.

• Represent ESnet/LBNL externally and contribute to organizational direction.

• Lead exploration of next-generation network services and drive innovation.

• Support customer engagement through requirements gathering, co-design, and integration.

• Coordinate with operations to transition prototypes into production.

• Contribute to national/international standards efforts (e.g., IETF, ITU).

• Promote knowledge sharing and build external collaborations.

• Support outreach through publications, presentations, and partnerships.

• Ensure security is integrated into systems and organizational culture.

• Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering or related field, and/or equivalent experience. Advanced degree, MS preferred.

• Typically requires a minimum of three years' experience in a managerial/leadership role within a network engineering organization. This includes supervision, guidance, and mentoring for team members.

• A minimum of 10 years of prototype development and deployment experience in a network environment.

• Demonstrated ability to lead a moderate-sized, team-oriented organization and attract, retain, and develop a diverse staff; resolve technical and interpersonal conflicts with diplomacy and tact.

• Project management experience, including developing technical scope, schedule, and budget planning and execution; ability to lead project teams to successful completion on time and within budget.

• Demonstrated experience as a subject matter expert in national and international forums.

• Demonstrated experience with user requirements gathering and developing technical specifications.

• Familiarity with DOE Office of Science research programs and/or Research and Education networking communities in the US or abroad.

• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills; demonstrated collaboration with technical peers, vendors, and ESnet users.

• Demonstrated ability to create and present technical research and findings at key committees and network conferences.

• Experience with requirements gathering.

• Experience with developing a project business case, including cost-benefit analysis, SWOT analysis, and implementation strategy.

• Travel will be required to present project status and data to various committees and organizations; some international travel may be required.

• Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans.

• Opportunities to grow in your career — Tuition Assistance Program.

• A culture where you belong and are invested in our teams.

• Winter Holiday Shutdown each year in addition to vacation and sick time.

• Parental bonding leave (for both mothers…