Program Manager and Government Business Development Lead

Job Description Rydberg Technologies is a leading-edge quantum and photonic sensing company advancing the state of the art in quantum sensor systems for defense, intelligence, and emerging commercial markets. We are seeking a driven and technically sophisticated Program Manager and Government Business Development Lead to play a central hands-on role in managing a portfolio of R&D programs and driving the expansion of our government business. This position is ideal for a mission-driven leader with a strong technical background, deep familiarity with the federal R&D ecosystem, and a passion for delivering real-world quantum technology. Key Responsibilities Program Management and Technical Execution - Lead execution of high-visibility R&D programs across agencies ensuring delivery of program milestones, sponsor satisfaction, and internal coordination across cross-functional teams. - Oversee reporting, documentation, schedule and risk management, and sponsor communication, including preparation of presentations and technical deliverables. - Serve as Principal Investigator (PI/Co-PI) or technical lead where appropriate, contributing directly to the scientific and engineering direction of active and proposed programs. Business Development and Capture Strategy - Identify, evaluate, and pursue new government funding opportunities aligned with Rydberg Technologies’ core competencies and strategic vision. - Shape and lead end-to-end capture efforts — from early engagement with program managers to concept development, teaming, and high-quality proposal submissions aimed at high win rates and significant contract value. - Build and maintain trusted relationships with sponsors and collaborators, acting as a public-facing leader of the company’s RD&E activities. Strategic Contribution and Internal Leadership - Work with senior leadership to align R&D efforts with business goals, commercialization paths, and product strategy. - Support identification of commercial transition opportunities and dual-use applications in coordination with technical and business leadership. - Contribute to internal organizational development, process and systems improvement, and knowledge sharing as the company scales. - Champion a culture of rigor, ownership, and delivery within and across teams. Qualifications -Ph.D. in physics, quantum science and engineering, or a closely related field; expertise in Rydberg atom physics, quantum sensing, photonics, or precision measurement science . - Minimum 5 years of experience managing U.S. government-funded R&D programs, with demonstrated success in technical execution, stakeholder management, and deliverable completion. -Proven strong track record of developing successful federal proposal bids and leading technical capture and execution, including a history of high proposal win rates and securing significant contract values (e.g., multi-million-dollar efforts). - Exceptional communication and technical project management skills, with the ability to translate technical innovation into strategic execution. - Strong personal integrity, loyalty, and motivation to drive innovative R&D and build high-impact technologies with real-world deployment. Experience - Prior work at a fast-paced technology business working on dual-use or security technology. - Familiarity with transition planning, productization, or government customer integration for advanced sensors or quantum technologies - Experience managing or contributing to multi-disciplinary teams of physicists, engineers, and systems professionals. About Rydberg Technologies: Rydberg Technologies Inc. is a pioneer in atomic quantum sensor technology, advancing novel systems for government, commercial, and scientific applications. We develop next- Rydberg atom-based sensors, quantum communications systems, and photonic subsystems that power the future of quantum technologies. We are a fast-moving, innovation-driven company that values initiative, precision, scientific excellence and execution.

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