Sr. Director, Directed Energy Systems Strategy

nLIGHT, Inc.
paid time off, paid holidays, tuition assistance, 401(k)
United States, Washington, Vancouver
5408 Northeast 88th Street (Show on map)
Aug 16, 2025
Description Position : Senior Director, Directed Energy Systems Strategy Experience : 15+ years of experience working within DoD programs and government contracting Education: Masters degree in Engineering, the Sciences, or related field required; PhD preferred Location: Remote Compensation: $200,000-$280,000 nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation's leading developers of High Energy Laser (HEL) weapon systems. HEL weapon systems are a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense. Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DS is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities - from semiconductor device through target identification and tracking - to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective. We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. The ideal candidate has a strong work ethic, is highly organized, self-motivated, enjoys working as a part of a team, and has an insatiable appetite to learn and adapt in a fast-paced environment while continuously contributing to our mission. All applicants must possess or be qualified to obtain a U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Preference will be given to candidates with an existing U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Further information on requirements to obtain a security clearance is available at: https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/mbi/gicp/ . Please review this information before applying. Summary: In this role, the Sr. Director of Directed Energy Systems Strategy leads strategic initiatives across customer engagement, strategic planning, proposal development, and program execution to advance nLIGHT's mission and competitive positioning. The individual drives capture strategy and proposal alignment with government priorities, ensuring competitive advantage and mission relevance. Strategic customer engagement is also a core focus, with responsibility for shaping perceptions, expanding influence, and guiding outreach across key target communities. This position also includes playing a key role in program support and execution, ensuring technical excellence and alignment throughout the lifecycle of major efforts. The Sr. Director of Directed Energy Systems Strategy will engage in government affairs to interpret policy, influence budgetary direction, and advocate for initiatives that support nLIGHT's long-term objectives. They will also spearhead innovation efforts to access adjacent markets, identifying emerging opportunities guiding internal development to position nLIGHT for sustained growth. Function/Responsibilities: Serve as principal liaison with government customers throughout program planning and execution phases Spearhead high-level customer engagement efforts through various methods; mapping and cultivating relationships with key stakeholders across the customer ecosystem Broaden and elevatenLIGHT's presence across diverse customer segments, bringing awareness and interest beyond established communities CommunicatenLIGHT's vision, capabilities, and strategic initiatives to appropriate audiences to drive engagement Ensure alignment ofinternal research and development (IRAD) initiatives with current and emerging government priorities and strategic objectives. Lead the alignment ofnLIGHT system requirements to DoD service mission areas Lead the development of proposal strategies by proactively aligningnLIGHT offerings with government customer roadmaps and mission priorities. Develop successful proposals based on nLIGHT's differentiated offerings. Actively guide customer thinking around fielding and operationalizing directed energy weapons, influencing TTP and doctrine development to align withnLIGHT solutions and offerings. Assist strategically in the launch and development of new programs while providing ongoing technical and programmatic guidance throughout the program(s) lifecycle Support international business development by building relationships with foreign customers and understanding their strategic roadmaps Align and adaptnLIGHT products and technology strategies to meet international customer needs Qualifications: Commitment to Excellence. Attention to Detail. Pride in Workmanship. 15 years of experience within DoD programs, government contracting Masters degree in Engineering, the Sciences, or related field required; PhD preferred Experience working with directed energy systems development and deployment Willingness to travel up to 25% of the time. Benefits Summary: 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year 11 paid Holidays Employee Stock Purchase Plan Tuition Assistance Program Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100% Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting Equal Opportunity Employer . All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal . If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at (360) 566-4460 or [emailprotected] .