Overview

The National Security Directorate (NSD) drives science-based, mission-focused solutions to take on complex, real-world threats to our nation and the world.

The Physical Detection Systems and Deployment (PDSD) Division, part of NSD, delivers policy-informed technology solutions by removing barriers to real-world implementation. We strive to understand end-user environments to transition technology from the developmental stage to deployment. Our diverse expertise in operational systems provides tools, technologies, and approaches for combating a range of threats, both at home and in more than 100 countries around the globe.

The Advanced Engineered Systems Group, part of PDSD, supports a future mission environment increasingly defined by resilient communications, autonomous and robotic platforms, advanced sensing technologies, and edge computing solutions for size-, weight-, and power-constrained environments. The Group's approximately 50 staff-including electrical, mechanical, and software engineers, technicians, and project support professionals-design, prototype, integrate, and deploy complex systems that address national security challenges ranging from contraband detection to nuclear material identification.

Responsibilities

The PDSD Division is seeking a strategic and technically grounded Group Leader to lead the Advanced Engineered Systems Group. In this role, you will guide a multidisciplinary team while shaping a forward-looking vision that expands technical capabilities, strengthens sponsor relationships, and develops new mission-focused programs.

The Advanced Engineered Systems Group is recognized for delivering customized, operationally relevant systems to users in the field. Core capabilities include automation and autonomous systems; sensing and communications payload development; robotic operating systems; operationalization of AI/ML-enabled capabilities; and autonomous vehicle operations across air, land, and maritime domains. The Group also advances resilient sensing and communications technologies across the electromagnetic spectrum, spanning RF, optical, acoustic, and mmWave systems, along with RF fingerprinting, edge computing, and technology maturation from early-stage research through prototyping and operational deployment.

The Group Leader must have a strong understanding of engineered systems, hardware-software integration, and the full technology development lifecycle, from concept through deployed capability. Success in this role requires demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary technical teams, cultivate sponsor relationships, align investments with strategic mission needs, and execute complex programs that deliver meaningful operational impact.

Strategy Development and Execution

• Partner across technical groups to develop integrated capabilities that address emerging mission needs.
• Lead Group strategy, capability development, and growth in emerging technology areas.
• Contribute to the PDSD Division Level strategy.
• Build collaborations across PNNL to strengthen capabilities and support new business opportunities.

People Leadership

• Lead and develop an approximately 50-person multidisciplinary organization.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, inclusion, innovation, accountability, and technical excellence.
• Support recruitment, workforce planning, staff development, and succession planning.
• Create an engaging, high-performing work environment that supports staff wellbeing and growth.

Operational Management

• Manage Group operations, staffing, facilities, and technical assets to support mission execution.
• Ensure safe, secure, and compliant laboratory operations with strong operational discipline, including stewardship of specialized research and prototyping environments.
• Support budget, staffing, and investment planning aligned with Division priorities.

External Engagement and Mission Growth

• Strengthen the Group's technical reputation through sponsor engagement, publications, presentations, and collaborations.
• Build productive relationships with sponsors, universities, industry, and partner laboratories.
• Support business development and identify new mission opportunities in partnership with Division leadership and project teams.

This position is based at the PNNL main campus in Richland, WA and requires onsite work.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS/BA and 10 years work experience -OR-
• MS/MA or higher and 8 years of experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in engineering with 15 years of relevant experience.
• Proven ability to execute on a vision and translate it into clear, tangible outcomes. This includes a strong understanding of the mission landscape and the capability to effectively bring mission direction and purpose to the group.
• Demonstrated high emotional intelligence and strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust, integrate effectively across diverse capabilities, and foster collaboration.
• Proven ability to understand and support the unique roles, career paths, and development needs of scientists and engineers.
• Strong organizational influence skills, with a track record of effectively engaging and aligning stakeholders across multiple groups and divisions.
• Experience with operational risk, including knowledge of information security, safe conduct of research, and a demonstrated ability to balance of safety/security with productivity.
• Ability to effectively communicate across technical expertise and organizational cultures, translating vision and objectives for the workforce and distilling complex programs/technologies for diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated strong oral and written communication skills, with experience presenting information clearly to diverse audiences.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

Not applicable.

Additional Information

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance.

A security clearance background investigation includes review of your employment, education, financial, and criminal history, as well as interviews with you and your personal references, neighbors, and co-workers to determine trustworthiness, reliability, and loyalty to the United States. The investigation also examines your foreign connections, drug and alcohol use, foreign influence, and overall conduct.