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Director Applied Systems Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UL Solutions

Director Applied R&D

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$183K - $244K/yr

The Director of R&D is a senior technical and business leader responsible for shaping and growing ... Systems. This leader is both a deeply accomplished engineer and a practical business builder. They ...

UL Solutions

Director Applied R&D

Northbrook, IL · Hybrid

$183K - $244K/yr

The Director of R&D is a senior technical and business leader responsible for shaping and growing ... Systems. This leader is both a deeply accomplished engineer and a practical business builder. They ...

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Director Applied Systems information

What does a Director of Applied Systems do?

A Director of Applied Systems oversees the development, implementation, and optimization of technology systems that support business operations. This role typically involves leading teams of engineers and analysts to design and manage software and hardware solutions tailored to an organization’s needs. The director collaborates with other departments to ensure technology strategies align with business goals, while also managing budgets, timelines, and vendor relationships. They play a key role in driving innovation, improving system efficiency, and ensuring the security and reliability of critical applications.

What is the difference between Director Applied Systems vs Software Development Manager?

AspectDirector Applied SystemsSoftware Development Manager
Primary FocusOversees applied systems projects, implementation, and integration within an organizationManages software development teams, project timelines, and coding processes
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in IT, computer science, or related field; certifications like PMP or systems-specific certifications are commonLikewise requires a degree in computer science or related field; certifications like Scrum Master or PMP are often preferred
Work EnvironmentCorporate or enterprise settings focusing on systems integration and operational efficiencyDevelopment teams, tech companies, or IT departments focusing on software creation and delivery

While both roles involve technology management, the Director Applied Systems focuses on implementing and managing applied systems within an organization, whereas the Software Development Manager concentrates on leading software development teams to create new software solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Applied Systems, and why are they important?

To succeed as a Director of Applied Systems, you need expertise in systems engineering, project management, and a strong background in computer science or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with enterprise software platforms, cloud technologies, and certifications like PMP or ITIL are typically required. Outstanding leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills set top candidates apart in guiding cross-functional teams and managing complex projects. These capabilities ensure that organizational systems are effectively designed, integrated, and aligned with business objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by a Director of Applied Systems when leading cross-functional teams?

A Director of Applied Systems often navigates the complexities of aligning diverse technical and business teams toward shared project goals. Common challenges include managing competing priorities, ensuring clear communication between departments, and integrating new technologies with existing systems. Success in this role requires strong leadership, the ability to mediate between stakeholders, and adaptability to evolving project requirements. Building trust and fostering collaboration across cross-functional teams are essential for driving innovation and achieving organizational objectives.
What cities are hiring for Director Applied Systems jobs? Cities with the most Director Applied Systems job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Applied Systems jobs? The most popular types of Applied Systems jobs are:
What states have the most Director Applied Systems jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Applied Systems jobs include:
Director Applied Systems jobs near you

Director Applied R&D

UL Solutions

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$183K - $244K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

UL Solutions rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description

Job Description
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.
Responsibilities
Technical Leadership & Innovation
  • Set and drive technical direction across multiple engineering and science disciplines.
  • Lead development of innovative, practical solutions to complex customer and industry problems.
  • Serve as a recognized technical authority and trusted advisor within UL Solutions and with customers, partners, and regulators.
  • Promote a culture of creativity, speed, disciplined experimentation, and strong engineering fundamentals.

Strategy & Market Insight
  • Translate market trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies into clear R&D priorities.
  • Influence company direction by connecting technical capability to long-term growth opportunities.
  • Identify white-space opportunities where UL Solutions can lead through new methods, tools, or services.
  • Business Development & Revenue Growth
  • Generate revenue through contract R&D programs with strategic customers.
  • Lead the creation and launch of differentiated, high-value technical services.
  • Partner closely with sales, marketing, and product teams to shape compelling customer value propositions.
  • Support strategic pursuits by providing technical leadership, credibility, and solution framing.

Customer & Ecosystem Engagement
  • Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders, customers, regulators, research institutions, and industry partners.
  • Increase customer engagement with R&D through collaborative programs, joint development work, and advisory roles.
  • Represent UL Solutions in industry forums, technical committees, and standards organizations as appropriate.

Team Leadership & Talent Development
  • Lead and develop high-performing teams of engineers, scientists, and technical specialists across multiple disciplines.
  • Create an environment that values technical rigor, curiosity, accountability, and continuous learning.
  • Actively mentor and coach technical staff, from early-career engineers to senior subject-matter experts.
  • Identify and develop future technical leaders, including succession planning for critical roles.
  • Align individual development plans with business needs and long-term organizational goals.

Qualifications
  • 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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About Us
A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support our customers' product innovation and business growth. The UL Mark serves as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers' products and reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains, and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.

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