R&D Program Manager (Waterloo)

SummaryThe R&D Program Manager at Phantom Photonics is a strategic and operational role responsible for leading research and development activities in Waterloo. Serving as a direct extension of the CTO, this person oversees three key dimensions:Operational leadership: Managing day-to-day R&D activities and ensuring flawless project execution.Team management: Leading and mentoring the Waterloo-based research team.Programmatic oversight: Contributing to the definition, prioritization, and implementation of Phantom Photonics’ research roadmap.The R&D Program Manager oversees both internal R&D programs initiated by Phantom Photonics and externally funded contracts sponsored by government agencies or industrial partners. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that scientific innovation is translated into tangible, high-impact technologies aligned with the company’s long-term vision.Core MissionTo manage and coordinate all research programs—internal, governmental, and industrial—while serving as the technical and operational bridge between the R&D team and the CTO.Key ResponsibilitiesInternal R&D ManagementSupervise and guide the Waterloo R&D team in day-to-day operations.Ensure the smooth execution of internal R&D programs aligned with Phantom Photonics’ technology roadmap.Coordinate technical activities, resource allocation, and milestone tracking across multiple projects.Maintain a strong understanding of the company’s core technologies to contribute meaningfully to scientific discussions and innovation strategy.External R&D ContractsManage research contracts sponsored by government agencies (Canadian or international) and industrial partners.Oversee project deliverables, reporting, and compliance with funding requirements.Help the CTO to liaise with external stakeholders and ensure contractual, technical, and administrative alignment.Contribute to the preparation of proposals and technical documentation for funding programs and partnerships.Strategic & Programmatic ContributionAct as the technical liaison to the CTO, ensuring that research execution remains consistent with strategic objectives.Provide input on R&D priorities, emerging technologies, and potential directions for internal development.Support the CTO in shaping the R&D vision and identifying new opportunities for scientific advancement.In the longer term, serve as a bridge between R&D and the Product Development organization as the company scales.Reporting StructureReports to: Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Location: Waterloo, Ontario (minimum three days per week on site)ProfileDegree in engineering or applied physics (photonics, optics, quantum technologies, or related).7+ years of experience in R&D project or program management in a high-tech or research environment - industry will be preferred.Strong leadership and organizational skills; experience leading technical teams.Excellent understanding of government R&D programs (e.g., NRC IRAP, CSA, DRDC, NGen, Mitacs, etc.).Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; French is an asset.Proactive mindset and scientific curiosity; capable of balancing execution with innovation.Security and Reliability RequirementsDue to the nature of Phantom Photonics’ research and partnerships with governmental and defense organizations, the position requires:Eligibility to obtain a Government of Canada Reliability Status, andThe ability to obtain, in the future, a Security Clearance (up to Secret level if required).Candidates must meet the conditions for access to controlled goods, sensitive technologies, and restricted data in accordance with Canadian and international export control regulations.Note: This requirement is based on project and client obligations, not on personal background characteristics. Phantom Photonics is committed to employment equity and fair opportunity for all qualified applicants.ImpactThe R&D Program Manager ensures that Phantom Photonics’ research efforts translate into innovation, intellectual property, and technology readiness. This role strengthens operational discipline while maintaining the creative momentum that defines deep-tech excellence.