Vice President, Research & Development

AMAROK
life insurance, flexible benefit account, tuition reimbursement, 401(k), retirement plan
United States, South Carolina, Columbia
Apr 22, 2025
Company Information Continuously ranked as one of South Carolina's Best Places to Work, AMAROK (formerly known as Electric Guard Dog) is the Nation's leader in security industry and *the* Ultimate Perimeter Security. Our unique and technically advanced electric fence reliably stops theft and other criminal activity by guarding our customers' property and assets 24/7. Job Summary We are seeking a visionary Research and Development leader to architect the next generation of AMAROK's infrastructure and perimeter defense offerings. This executive will be instrumental in leading all R&D efforts - from driving innovation and identifying emerging technologies to delivering technically sound, customer-centric solutions. The VP of R&D will be charged with both enhancing our existing product line and pioneering new solutions in areas like intelligent gate systems, smart sensors, advanced deterrent technologies, and AI-enabled platforms, working collaboratively across the company to build our research capabilities and evolve our technological foundation. The ideal candidate will define and execute a long-term strategic roadmap, exploring growth in areas including gate access and robotics, while enhancing core products. By leading a high-performing team and leveraging data insights, this individual will drive impactful solutions, strengthening AMAROK's market leadership and addressing evolving customer requirements. Success involves a clear R&D roadmap, tangible improvements in product reliability and usability, a robust innovation pipeline, reduced customer issues, and optimized product development cycle. This position is based in Columbia, SC. Your Impact Spearhead the full R&D lifecycle for AMAROK's security products, from identifying market pain points to delivering groundbreaking solutions through design, prototyping, and rigorous testing. Build and lead a high-performing engineering team, fostering a culture of innovation, rapid iteration, and unwavering quality. Pioneer next-generation security solutions, including advanced gate access, radar, autonomous robotics, and cost-effective fencing for diverse applications. Drive innovation in materials science and integrated technologies, overseeing the development and testing of novel components to enhance product performance, durability, and safety. Translate customer insights and market intelligence into actionable product requirements and strategic development priorities for impactful, market-leading solutions. Drive operational excellence in R&D by managing budgets, timelines, and resources, while diligently monitoring progress, mitigating risks, and tracking key performance metrics. Integrate the latest smart technologies - including IoT and AI - to develop intelligent security systems with superior monitoring, proactive deterrence, intuitive user experiences, and streamlined service efficiency. Champion user-centric design principles ensuring AMAROK's solutions are technically superior, easy to install and service, and cost-effective for customers. Cultivate strategic partnerships with technology vendors, academic institutions, and startups to explore emerging technologies and accelerate the delivery of transformative security solutions. Architect a seamlessly integrated security ecosystem ensuring current and future AMAROK products work harmoniously with other security innovations. Revolutionize core electric perimeter fence solutions by collaborating to enhance material and component designs for unparalleled strength and adaptability. Harness data-driven insights to continuously monitor product utilization, identify optimization areas, and drive R&D initiatives for enhanced customer satisfaction. Stay at the forefront of the security industry by conducting market research, analyzing competition, and proactively identifying emerging trends. What You'll Bring Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, or related). Master's degree in engineering, Technology Management, or Business (MBA) is preferred. 10+ years in engineering, product development, or technical innovation leadership (security, industrial, or connected hardware preferred). Proven experience managing R&D or engineering teams. Ability to excel in a customer-centric product development with strong cross-functional collaboration and communication skills. Strong understanding of product development lifecycle and research methodologies with a track record of successful product launches. Data-driven with strong analytical and project management skills. Ability to travel as needed. Why chose AMAROK for your next career endeavor? AMAROK is driven by our companies' core values and we strive to facilitate a greater sense of purpose in our career opportunities. Health Benefits (Medical, Dental & Vision) Tuition Reimbursement Program Short & Long-term disability Life Insurance Flexible Spending Account (Section 125) Matching 401K retirement plan Career advancement Bonus opportunities Generous PTO Annual Compensation Range:$175,000 - $180,000. Compensation is determined based on competitive market data, experience, skillset and geographical location. See what our employees have to say about working for AMAROK! https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/AMAROK-Reviews-E603124.htm Our recruiting experience is digital! AMAROK is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and will make all employment related decisions without regard to age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or veteran status. Once you submit your application, AMAROK will process the provided personal data to evaluate your candidacy for employment. For details regarding how your personal data will be used during an interview process, and to understand our commitment to keeping your personal data safe, please review our Data Privacy Policy here - https://amarok.com/privacy-policy/