Overview

US Conec is seeking a Vice President, Optical Interconnect Technology to lead research and development, product technology strategy, and next-generation product development for passive optical interconnect solutions, including MT ferrules, multifiber connectors, and related optical connectivity products. As a key member of the executive leadership team, this role will drive innovation, technology commercialization, and engineering excellence while partnering closely with product management, operations, manufacturing, and commercial teams to accelerate growth and strengthen US Conec’s leadership in the optical connectivity industry.

Responsibilities

• Lead global research and development efforts focused on next-generation passive optical interconnect technologies, precision ferrules, and multifiber connector solutions
• Develop and execute short- and long-term technology roadmaps aligned with business objectives, market trends, customer needs, and growth strategies
• Establish and communicate a clear technology vision that advances innovation, manufacturability, product performance, and competitive differentiation
• Partner with executive leadership to define R&D priorities, technology investments, and future technical capabilities
• Drive product and process innovation initiatives across engineering and manufacturing functions
• Identify, evaluate, and commercialize emerging technologies, breakthrough products, and intellectual property opportunities
• Oversee new product development programs from concept through commercialization and high-volume production
• Ensure products meet performance, quality, reliability, regulatory, and industry-standard requirements
• Establish best practices for product design, engineering processes, design validation, and reliability testing
• Advance engineering excellence through process optimization, precision molding technologies, manufacturing innovation, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with customers, suppliers, research institutions, industry organizations, and development partners
• Monitor competitive technologies, industry trends, and market developments to inform strategic planning and innovation efforts
• Represent US Conec at customer engagements, technical forums, industry conferences, standards organizations, and strategic partnership meetings
• Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing engineering, R&D, and innovation teams while supporting succession planning and leadership development
• Contribute to corporate strategy, budgeting, capital planning, and resource allocation as a member of the executive leadership team
• Leverage customer insights, market intelligence, and technical expertise to guide strategic decision-making and R&D investments

Must Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline
• 15+ years of experience in fiber optic components, passive optical devices, optical connectivity, optical connectors, or precision optical interconnect manufacturing
• 5+ years of experience in senior engineering, technology, innovation, or R&D leadership roles
• Deep expertise in optical connector design, optical interconnect systems, and industry testing standards such as IEC, TIA, and Telcordia
• Proven success developing and executing product technology roadmaps and innovation strategies
• Demonstrated experience leading large-scale engineering organizations and complex technology programs
• Strong background in new product introduction (NPI) from customer engagement through commercialization and production ramp-up
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams across optical design, mechanical engineering, materials science, manufacturing, and quality/reliability functions
• Track record of technology innovation, patent development, and intellectual property creation
• Strong business acumen with the ability to align technology investments to strategic business goals
• Experience managing R&D budgets, capital investments, and engineering resource planning
• Exceptional leadership, team-building, and organizational development skills
• Excellent communication, presentation, and executive influence capabilities
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively across technical, operational, commercial, and executive stakeholders
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities

Nice to Haves

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field
• Experience with precision polymer ferrule technology and high-precision molding processes
• Background in advanced optical connectivity products and passive optical interconnect solutions
• Experience working within global technology organizations and leading international engineering teams
• Expertise evaluating emerging optical, materials, and manufacturing technologies and transforming them into commercial products
• Industry experience in adjacent markets such as optical fiber and cable, optical assemblies, transceivers, or optical networking technologies
• Participation in industry standards bodies, technical committees, consortiums, or research collaborations

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonus potential
• 4 weeks of PTO plus paid holidays
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with employer match
• A collaborative culture focused on innovation and continuous improvement
• Opportunities for career growth within a global technology leader