Director Applied R&D

The Director of R&D is a senior technical and business leader responsible for shaping and growing UL Solutions' applied research capability. This role leads multidisciplinary teams working across Fire Science, Batteries and Energy Storage, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Systems.

This leader is both a deeply accomplished engineer and a practical business builder. They translate technical excellence into customer value and sustainable revenue. The role is charged with expanding the influence of R&D on company strategy, strengthening engagement with internal and external customers, and driving growth through contract R&D programs and new, high-value service development. The position sits at the intersection of technical rigor, market awareness, and business execution.

* Advanced degree in engineering or physical sciences (PhD preferred; MS with strong applied experience acceptable).

* Deep technical expertise in at least one core discipline, with credibility across multiple engineering domains.

* Demonstrated leadership experience managing and developing engineers and scientists in applied R&D or advanced engineering environments.

* Proven track record of delivering complex R&D programs with measurable customer, technical, or commercial impact.

* Experience working with industry, regulators, and standards bodies is strongly preferred.

* Demonstrated success in business development, customer engagement, or commercialization of technical work.

* Innovative problem solver who focuses on outcomes and practical solutions.

* Technically accomplished engineer with sound judgment and intellectual curiosity.

* Thought leader and outstanding communicator, effective with executives, customers, and technical peers.

* Strategic thinker who understands markets, customers, and competitive dynamics.

* Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to convert technical capability into revenue-generating offerings.

Total Rewards:
We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career . The estimated salary range for this position is $183,000 to $244,000 and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 30% of the base salary and a 30% RSU grant.

This position also provides health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation (20 days), holidays including 3 floating holidays (12 days) and sick time off (72 hours).

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* Advanced degree in engineering or physical sciences (PhD preferred; MS with strong applied experience acceptable).

* Deep technical expertise in at least one core discipline, with credibility across multiple engineering domains.

* Demonstrated leadership experience managing and developing engineers and scientists in applied R&D or advanced engineering environments.

* Proven track record of delivering complex R&D programs with measurable customer, technical, or commercial impact.

* Experience working with industry, regulators, and standards bodies is strongly preferred.

* Demonstrated success in business development, customer engagement, or commercialization of technical work.

* Innovative problem solver who focuses on outcomes and practical solutions.

* Technically accomplished engineer with sound judgment and intellectual curiosity.

* Thought leader and outstanding communicator, effective with executives, customers, and technical peers.

* Strategic thinker who understands markets, customers, and competitive dynamics.

* Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to convert technical capability into revenue-generating offerings.

Total Rewards:
We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career . The estimated salary range for this position is $183,000 to $244,000 and is based on multiple factors,…