Advanced Test Systems Senior Scientist & Technical Lead

The Applied Research Associates, Inc., Test Technology Division (TTD) is seeking an accomplished Senior Scientist to lead advanced research, development, testing, and evaluation activities supporting  Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Explosives (CBRNE) defense, national security, and emerging technology programs.

This position combines deep technical expertise with program development, customer engagement, and small-team leadership to develop, field, and operate next-generation sensing, instrumentation, automation, and test technologies. 

 The successful candidate will serve as a technical leader and trusted advisor, working closely with government sponsors, scientists, engineers, technicians, and program managers to deliver innovative solutions and execute complex laboratory and field programs.

This role is ideal for a hands-on scientist who thrives in both technical execution and the leadership of small multidisciplinary teams. 

 Key Responsibilities 

Research, Development, Test & Evaluation Leadership 


* Lead the planning, design, execution, and analysis of laboratory and field-based research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) activities. 



* Develop test objectives, requirements, experimental plans, and technical approaches aligned with customer mission needs. 



* Lead threat replication, characterization, signature discovery and exploitation, and technology evaluation efforts supporting DoD and national security customers. 



* Design and oversee test bed preparation, test article integration, instrumentation ranging and fielding, and experimental execution. 



* Support technology maturation and transition from early-stage research through operational field demonstrations and deployment. 

Program Development & Technical Leadership 


* Help identify, market, and develop new technical opportunities aligned with customer needs and ARA strategic growth areas. 



* Support business development through customer engagement, white papers, proposal development, technical volume writing, basis-of-estimate development, and technical presentations. 



* Develop technical roadmaps and research strategies to advance emerging technologies and capabilities. 



* Build and maintain strong customer relationships through technical excellence, responsiveness, clear communication, and successful project execution. 



* Coordinate with scientists, engineers, project managers, and external partners to develop integrated technical solutions. 

Small Team Leadership & Mentorship 


* Lead small multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, technicians, and subcontractors in the execution of complex technical programs. 



* Provide day-to-day supervision, technical direction, mentoring, and professional development for junior staff. 



* Foster a culture of technical excellence, innovation, collaboration, accountability, and safety. 



* Lead by example thro...