Associate Director for Applied Research and Development

Responsibilities

• Lead and advance applied research and development (R&D) of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) technologies through internal initiatives and external funding.
• Identify, prioritize, and pursue UAS-related projects driven by grants, contracts, and subsidies from public and private sources.
• Develop and submit high-quality proposals to a wide range of funding sources to secure research income and revenue.
• Coordinate with UAS department staff and college personnel to ensure successful development, testing, and demonstration of technical projects.
• Travel extensively to cultivate and strengthen relationships with research clients, partners, and funders.
• Attend industry and trade conferences both in the U.S. and internationally to pursue R&D and revenue opportunities.
• Align R&D efforts with the strategic goals and vision of the UAS Department and the broader college.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum of five years of relevant technical and/or applied research and development experience.
• Proven experience in the UAS industry.
• Current FAA Remote Pilot Certificate.
• Small UAS operational flight experience on a variety of platforms.
• Exceptional strategic planning and project management skills.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships with internal and external partners.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree.
• Experience related to Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) concepts and technologies.
• Traditional aviation industry experience.
• FAA Second Class Medical certificate.
• Completion of UAS Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) authorized training certifications.
• U.S. Citizenship and a valid U.S. Passport.

Benefits

• Tuition waiver for employees and dependents for all Sinclair courses and programs.
• Support for continued training and education, including tuition reimbursement.
• OPERS pension participation option with a 14% employer contribution.
• 4+ weeks of personal and vacation leave, plus 3+ weeks of sick leave annually.
• 14 days of annually observed company holidays.
• Expansive insurance programs, including an HSA with annual employer contribution.

About the Company

Sinclair Community College is dedicated to advancing Unmanned Aerial Systems technologies and applications. Our UAS department focuses on driving innovation that benefits the safe growth of the industry while providing increased capabilities and positive exposure for our research efforts.