Associate Director, Cyber Operations R&D; Onsite

Associate Director of Cyber Operations

Location:

Cedar Rapids, IA

Collins Applied Research & Technology seeks an Associate Director of Cyber Operations to lead a multi‑disciplinary department of software, systems, cyber, and firmware engineers working together to deliver next‑generation cyber operation capabilities to the connected battlespace. This fast‑paced position focuses on developing novel security technology and transitioning it to real‑world practice. The role requires a U.S. citizen with a Top Secret security clearance.

• Lead a multi‑disciplinary team of engineers responsible for development and rapid maturation of next‑generation cyber capabilities.
• Engage with defense partners to rapidly transition new technology innovations to operational practice, incorporating early customer feedback and ensuring alignment.
• Recruit, retain, and develop engineering talent across the team.
• Provide strategic input on technology roadmaps, investments in innovation, and product improvements across Collins cyber portfolio.
• Collaborate across Applied Research & Technology, RTX businesses, and other partners to identify new opportunities and innovations.
• Promote engagement with defense customers for capturing new research and development contracts.
• Oversee execution of complex customer‑funded programs, facilitating transition from advanced research to practical operationalization at short time scales.
• Cultivate a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Oversee departmental resource allocation, including budget management, staffing projections, and laboratory capital expenditures.
• Travel up to 20%.

• Typically requires a degree in STEM and minimum 12 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree and minimum 10 years of experience.
• Active and transferable U.S. government issued Top Secret security clearance required prior to start date.
• Experience leading teams conducting engineering and rapid prototype development.
• Recognized expertise in cyber security, software design, and/or systems engineering.

• Experience leading technologists in an R&D environment.
• Experience with U.S. DoD 6.2 and 6.3 research organizations (DARPA, AFRL, ONR, NRL, ARL).
• Experience with competitive intelligence in the cyber operations domain.
• Experience leading pursuit & capture activities for government S&T programs.
• Experience with battle management systems, tactical communications, and/or military platforms.
• Experience in developing, integrating, and certifying new cyber operation technologies.

The benefits package includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees.
• Generous 401(k) plan with employer matching, separate employer retirement contribution, and Lifetime Income Strategy option.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Student Loan Repayment Program.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Optional coverages: pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal,  protection.
• Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits, Ovia Health fertility and family planning assistance.
• Autism Benefit, Employee Assistance Plan (up to 10 free counseling sessions), Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program.
• Doctor on Demand virtual visits, Bright Horizons child and elder care services, Teladoc second opinion program.
• Eligible for relocation assistance.

Salary range: $157,200 – $298,800 USD.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.