Space Remote Sensing and Data Science Group Leader; R&D Manager

What You Will Do

Help support our National Security Mission and discover why we attract the best minds in the world! The Space Remote Sensing and Data Science Group (ISR-6) is seeking a highly motivated, dynamic scientific and engineering leader with expertise and experience in remote sensing, data science, and space research.

The Space Remote Sensing and Data Science Group (ISR-6) is an innovative, vibrant group in the Intelligence & Space Research (ISR) Division. ISR Division has been designing, building, and operating innovative ground, air, and spaced-based measurement and detection systems for over 60 years to provide solutions for some of the most challenging scientific and national security problems facing the nation and the world.

The ISR-6 Group, with nearly 40 scientists & engineers, postdocs, and students, develops and deploys sophisticated and customized detection systems and analysis tools to address needs in our key mission areas of nuclear non-proliferation, space domain awareness, atmospheric science, planetary science and exploration, and multi-source intelligence. To develop and deploy these tailored solutions, we leverage our core capabilities in spectral, spatial, and temporal sensing (acoustic, optical, infrared, RF, and x-rays);

source phenomenology modeling, interpretation, and propagation; data analysis, algorithm development and machine learning; and detector and system design, development, and deployment (ground, airborne and space-based platforms). Our data analysis capabilities include, but are not limited to, time-frequency analysis, anomaly detection, extraction of faint signals from cluttered backgrounds, machine learning, ptychography and tomography. Our systems are tested in laboratory and operationally relevant (field and testbed) scenarios and range from low TRL (proof of principle systems) to high TRL (deployed).

The ISR-6 Group Leader will be responsible for establishing and executing a strategic vision that positions the group for future mission success while maintaining excellence in ongoing program execution. You will participate in the leadership and management of the technical work and administrative operations in the group. You will work closely with the Deputy Group Leader, ISR Division Leadership, Program Managers, Project Leaders, and external sponsors to advance the group's technical capabilities and mission impact.

As a member of the ISR Division Leadership Team, you will help shape divisional strategy, workforce planning, capability investments, and cross-organizational collaborations while supporting delivery of mission-critical programs and products.

The Group Leader will foster a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, safety, security, accountability, and continuous learning. You will support workforce development across all career stages, strengthen the student and postdoctoral pipeline, and ensure the group remains positioned to address future national security and scientific challenges.

As the Group Leader, you will also facilitate success by identifying, managing, and mitigating technical and organizational risk; collaborating closely with Program Managers and Project Leaders to ensure delivery of National Security Programs and information products on time and within budget; and by providing a safe and secure working environment for all using the ISR core values supported by Human Performance Improvement and Safe Conduct of Research principles.

You will be responsible for performance and salary management of staff; strategic workforce planning; providing growth and development opportunities; and recognizing individual and team accomplishments.

What You Need

Minimum

Job Requirements:

• Leadership:
  Proven ability to inspire, motivate, and lead multidisciplinary teams through complex scientific, engineering, operational, and organizational challenges.
• Demonstrated ability to drive a creative, entrepreneurial R&D work environment in which innovation and continuous learning are essential for solving some of the most difficult challenges in science, engineering, and national security.
• Demonstrated experience and commitment to developing the next generation of scientists and engineers through mentorship, sponsorship, succession planning, student engagement, and postdoctoral development.
• Proven ability to work and interact effectively in a dynamic team environment; to build and lead cross-organizational collaborations and teams; and to motivate staff through common goals and objectives.

Management

• Demonstrated record of advocating for resources, personnel, and projects within your team or organization.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex research portfolios and balancing mission execution, workforce development, strategic investment, and sponsor expectations.

Technical Knowledge

• Demonstrated scientific/engineering and technical leadership in one or more areas of ISR-6's key mission areas such as remote sensing, space systems, space domain awareness, advanced…