Overview In this role you will support DARPA MXO research by evaluating advanced materials, chemistry, photonic devices, and hardware components for system-level performance and mission-readiness. You will work with a cross-functional team from concept to closeout, advising program managers on technical execution, risk, and transition planning. Your analysis will tie experimental results to cost, manufacturability, and supply-chain considerations, helping steer program decisions. The position offers exposure to cutting-edge MXO priorities and potential travel to support reviews and demonstrations. This role suits a technically seasoned expert who thrives shaping program strategy and risk reduction in
Responsibilities- Evaluate advanced materials, chemistry, photonic devices, and hardware components for system integration
- Review technical approaches, evidence, tests, results, and risks; recommend actions to resolve uncertainties
- Support proposals, program reviews, demonstrations, and transition planning
- Connect technical findings to cost, schedule, manufacturability, and supply-chain resilience
- Advise program managers on planning, execution, cost, schedule, risk, and transition throughout R&D lifecycle
- Assess performer progress through reviews, site visits, tests, and demonstrations; identify concerns early and propose risk-reduction actions
- Coordinate with performers, government partners, test organizations, transition stakeholders, and technical experts to advance program objectives
- Produce technical and programmatic materials for leadership and external stakeholders
- Assist in developing new program concepts by researching emerging science and technology and evaluating feasibility for military relevance
- Provide independent, objective advice while safeguarding sensitive information and complying with security requirements
- Travel domestically and internationally for program reviews, tests, and partner engagements
Key requirements- Bachelor's degree
- 10 or more years of relevant experience
- US citizenship required for security-clearance eligibility
- Expert credentials or recognized authority in a relevant technical, managerial, or scientific field
- Mature judgment and ability to advise senior Government personnel on complex technical matters
- Ability to independently address R&D engineering problems and coordinate work
- Advanced knowledge of techniques, theories, and practices in chemistry, hardware systems, photonics, or related discipline
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- strong written and verbal communication
- mature judgment
- ability to advise senior Government personnel
- chemistry
- hardware systems
- photonics
