Vice President, Research and Development

About the role

This role involves leading the full lifecycle of new product and process development, focusing on strategic, high-priority projects, including military and defense-related programs. The Vice President will work closely with the owner and executive leadership to drive innovation and ensure smooth transitions from R&D to production.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full lifecycle of new product and process development — from concept, feasibility, and design through prototyping, validation, and manufacturing launch.
• Partner directly with the owner and executive leadership on strategic, high-priority projects, including new military and defense-related programs.
• Build and manage cross-functional project plans, timelines, and budgets to ensure on-time, on-spec delivery of new products into production.
• Direct and mentor engineering and R&D staff across United Stars' operating companies, fostering a culture of innovation, rigor, and continuous improvement.
• Evaluate new materials, technologies, and manufacturing methods to improve product performance, cost, and quality.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, and operations teams to ensure smooth transition of new designs from R&D into full-scale production.
• Ensure new products and processes meet applicable industry, customer, and regulatory/compliance standards, including those relevant to defense and government contracts.
• Manage relationships with outside partners, suppliers, testing labs, and customers involved in new product development.
• Prepare technical reports, project updates, and recommendations for ownership and executive leadership.
• Support proposal and program development for prospective military and government contracts, including technical scoping and feasibility input.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Materials, Manufacturing, Industrial, or related discipline) required; advanced degree a plus.
• Proven track record in Research & Development leadership, with demonstrated success taking products from concept through manufacturing launch.
• Experience with military, defense, or government-related programs strongly preferred.
• Background in metals manufacturing, precision machining, or related industrial processes preferred.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent development initiatives.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing engineering or R&D teams.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work closely and directly with ownership and senior leadership.

Nice-to-Have Skills

• Advanced degree in a related field.
• Experience in leading cross-functional teams.
• Familiarity with defense and government contract standards.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to foster teamwork and collaboration.

Assignment Details

This is a permanent position, starting as soon as possible, located in Beloit, Wisconsin, United States. The position is onsite.