Director of Engineering

About Vorbeck

Vorbeck is a small but dynamic and innovative technology firm specializing in cutting-edge applications of graphene. We are at the forefront of research, development, and commercialization of graphene-based conformal antennas, EMI/HPM shielding, radar absorbent materials, and other advanced graphene applications. Our mission is to revolutionize the industry by harnessing the exceptional properties of graphene, our ability to mass produce some of the highest quality graphene in the world, and creating high-performance solutions for various sectors, including telecommunications, aerospace, defense, and more.

In general, we are looking for individuals to join the team who are:

Innovative – curious, creative thinkers who are not afraid to try new things

Determined – hardworking, motivated people who know that success does not come easily

Leaders – people who want to grow, take on new responsibilities, and show the world what can be done

More information at www.vorbeck.com

Job Responsibilities

As the Director of Engineering, you will be responsible for leading and overseeing the engineering department. You will play a pivotal role in guiding the development, design, and implementation of advanced graphene applications, including conformal antennas, EMI/HPM shielding, and radar absorbent materials. This is a hands-on leadership position where you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and achieve technical excellence.

• Engineering Strategy: Develop and execute a comprehensive engineering strategy and roadmap that aligns with the company's overall goals and vision. Identify areas for growth, new application possibilities, and potential areas of innovation in graphene applications in addition to supporting productization and commercialization.
• Product Development: Lead and direct development efforts to continuously advance the state-of-the-art in graphene-based technologies. Foster a culture of experimentation and creativity, encouraging engineers to explore novel concepts and breakthrough solutions.
• Team Leadership: Manage a team of engineers and scientists. Provide mentorship, guidance, and professional development opportunities to help the team members thrive in their roles.
• Project Management: Oversee multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring they are executed efficiently, on schedule, and within budget. Collaborate with project managers to define project scopes, deliverables, and success criteria.
• Quality Assurance and Testing: Implement robust testing and product quality control processes to ensure that all products and solutions meet strict quality standards and adhere to industry regulations. Develop and oversee testing and evaluation of both new and mature products.
• Collaboration: Foster effective cross-functional collaboration with other departments, such as operations, sales, marketing, and production, or external partners to promote smooth product development and commercialization. Support sales for meetings from a technical standpoint to drive new business.
• Technology Evaluation: Stay abreast of the latest trends, research, and advancements in graphene technology and related fields. Evaluate and adopt emerging technologies and best practices to maintain a competitive edge.
• Risk Management: Identify potential technical challenges and risks and develop mitigation strategies to address them proactively.
• Intellectual Property: Work with the legal team to protect the company's intellectual property through patent filings and other means.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that all graphene-based products and solutions meet relevant industry standards and comply with regulatory requirements.
• Other tasks as maybe required, including giving external technical presentations, technical support for proposals, etc.

• Travel (expected) 10%

Education and Qualifications/Skills

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Material Science, or a related field. A Ph.D. would be an advantage.
• Proven experience (at least 8-10 years) in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects in a product development environment with successful outcomes.
• Proven ability to commercialize technology.
• Significant plus for expertise in graphene applications, radio frequency system design/development, and printable electronics.
• Strong understanding of material science, electromagnetics, test/QC methodologies, and RF systems.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements in the commercial, aerospace, government, and defense sectors a plus.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams towards common goals.
• Innovative mindset with a track record of problem-solving and creative thinking.
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks, manage resources, meet deadlines, and work in Integrated Program Teams (IPT).
• Excellent presentation and verbal communication skills, and strong technical writing ability for proposal support.
• Able to obtain or already possess a security clearance with the US DoD

Additional Information

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Program
• Vacation, Personal Time, and 10 Paid Holidays
• Company-sponsored Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance
• Flexible work hours

Physical Setting/work location:

• In-Office

Location (position is available in two locations):

• 8306 Patuxent Range Road, Suite 106, Jessup, MD  20794
• 4200 James Ray Drive, Grand Forks, ND 58202

*Vorbeck is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, or related medical conditions), marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.  This position will involve work on government contracts and the government requires that qualified candidates must be United States citizens. All personal information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.*

Pre-approved Agencies, only.