Research and Development Specialist SME

Location: Multiple Locations

Required Clearance: Top Secret

Certifications : DoD 8140 certifications

Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Life Sciences, or related technical discipline.

Required Experience: 10+ years of experience in R&D, innovation, or applied research roles.

PingWind is seeking a highly qualified and experienced Research and Development Specialist SME provides expert-level knowledge, leadership, and technical guidance in the planning, execution, and advancement of research and development initiatives. This role is responsible for identifying emerging technologies, designing and testing innovative solutions, and supporting the transition of concepts into operational or commercial applications. As a subject matter expert, the R&D Specialist advises leadership, mentors project teams, and ensures R&D activities align with organizational strategy and mission requirements.

Typical Responsibilities/Tasks:

• Lead the identification, evaluation, and development of new technologies, products, or processes.

• Stay at the forefront of industry trends, scientific advancements, and competitive technologies.

• Apply deep technical expertise to solve complex challenges and create innovative solutions.

• Design, prototype, and validate R&D concepts through modeling, simulation, experimentation, or proof-of-concept builds.

• Conduct feasibility studies, cost-benefit analyses, and risk assessments for new initiatives.

• Serve as the subject matter expert for assigned technical domains.

• Prepare and publish research findings, reports, and technical documentation.

• Ensure R&D projects adhere to organizational, regulatory, and ethical standards.

• Participate in intellectual property development, including patents and technology disclosures.

• Expertise in one or more relevant technical domains (e.g., software engineering, materials science, biotechnology, data science, advanced manufacturing).

• Experience with prototyping, modeling/simulation, and experimental design.

• Knowledge of technology transfer, commercialization, or systems integration.

• Familiarity with project management methodologies (Agile, Stage-Gate, etc.).

• DoD 8140 Certification

• Master’s. in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Life Sciences, or related technical discipline.

PingWind is focused on delivering outstanding services to the federal government. We have extensive experience in the fields of cyber security, development, IT infrastructure, supply chain management and other professional services such as system design and continuous improvement. PingWind is a VA CVE certified Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and SBA HUBZone Certified with offices in Washington DC and Northern Virginia. www.PingWind.com

Our benefits include:

· Eleven Federal Holidays

· Paid Time Off accrued each pay period

· Parental Leave

· Three medical plan choices with generous employer contribution

· Dental and Vision Insurance

· Company paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

· Company paid Life and AD&D Insurance

· 401k with competitive matching and vesting schedule

· Continuing education assistance

· Short Term / Long Term Disability & Life Insurance

· Medical, Dependent Care and Commuter Flexible Spending Accounts

· Employee Assistance Program

· Wellness benefits include Calm Health app and WellHub gym subsidy (formerly GymPass)

· 529 College Savings Plan

· Legal Insurance

· Pet Insurance

Veterans are encouraged to apply

PingWind, Inc. does not discriminate in employment opportunities, terms and conditions of employment, or practices on the basis of race, age, gender, religious or political beliefs, national origin or heritage, disability, sexual orientation, or any characteristic protected by law