R&D Planning, Advocacy, and Prototyping Specialist

WiSC Enterprises is seeking a skilled R&D Planning, Advocacy, and Prototyping Specialist to support critical research and development initiatives. This position requires a strategic thinker with deep technical expertise and experience developing and advancing emerging technology solutions. The selected candidate will play a key role in identifying new R&D opportunities, supporting proposal development, and transitioning prototypes into operational use.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide subject matter expertise to evaluate, prioritize, and support execution of advanced R&D initiatives

• Plan and manage R&D programs, including requirements gathering, system design, testing strategies, milestone development, scheduling, and cost estimation

• Support acquisition planning and contract strategy development for new sensors, data processing, analysis, or delivery capabilities

• Develop and present R&D proposals and technical briefings to secure stakeholder or sponsor advocacy and funding

• Advise on the integration and transition of prototypes into real-world operating environments

• Collaborate with engineering teams, acquisition personnel, and mission stakeholders to align technical objectives with operational needs

• Contribute to the development of documentation, white papers, and status updates in support of R&D efforts

Required Qualifications

• Clearance: Active TS/SCI required at the time of application

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline (Master’s degree preferred)

• Experience:

  • Minimum 5 years of experience supporting or managing technical R&D projects, preferably in a DoD or Intelligence Community environment

  • Experience with systems engineering, technical requirements analysis, system lifecycle planning, or T&E (Test & Evaluation)

  • Demonstrated success in developing technical proposals or white papers for government funding and advocacy

  • Familiarity with transitioning prototypes into operational or production environments

• Skills:

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to brief technical and executive-level stakeholders

  • Strong understanding of acquisition lifecycles, R&D funding processes, and prototyping methodologies

  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a cross-functional, collaborative team