Director of Advanced Technology - Electrification & Automation

Transform the everyday with us

About this role

We are seeking a Senior R&D Manager – Smart Infrastructure Electrification & Automation (U.S.)responsible for driving technical execution across critical product development initiatives, building high-performing engineering teams, and advancing simulation and AI-enabled development practices. This position is on-site in Wendell, NC, partnering closely with the Head of R&D, EA leadership, PLM, Product Strategy, Sales, Manufacturing, and global R&D counterparts.

Here at Siemens, we take pride in enabling sustainable progress through technology. We do this by empowering customers through the seamless combination of the real and digital worlds—improving how we live, work, and move today and for the next generation. We know that the only way a business thrives is if our people are thriving. That's why we always put our people first. Our global, diverse team will support you and challenge you to grow in new ways. Who knows where our shared journey will take you?

Key Responsibilities

Overhead Line Distribution & Product Portfolio Leadership

• Own staffing and ramp-up of Overhead Line Distribution efforts, including CMR (Compact Medium-voltage Recloser) and Fusesaver product lines.
• Lead knowledge transfer initiatives from Australia and global R&D centers to establish local technical expertise and development capabilities.
• Manage and bring under control open projects across the overhead line distribution portfolio—drive project execution, resolve technical roadblocks, and ensure on-time, high-quality deliveries.
• Collaborate with Product Strategy and PLM to align product roadmaps with market needs and business objectives.

Simulation & AI-Driven Development

• Drive simulation and AI efforts across the R&D organization, leveraging your Field Technology (FT) background to embed advanced digital engineering tools into product development cycles.
• Accelerate design cycles by reducing physical prototyping through simulation, improving design confidence before lab builds and field validation.
• Champion AI/ML-enabled design practices —shift from maintenance-heavy workflows to rapid concepting, iterative releases, and modern engineering methodologies.

SST, DC Transition & Emerging Technologies

• Support Solid State Transformer (SST) and DC transition initiatives , providing technical leadership and R&D execution support.
• Partner with global R&D teams to integrate emerging technologies into the U.S. product portfolio and development roadmap.

Team Building & Talent Development

• Build and scale high-performing engineering teams —recruit top talent, coach team leads, and foster a culture of accountability, curiosity, and technical excellence.
• Lead local ramp-up of resources with Product Area (PA) support, ensuring effective onboarding, skills development, and integration into project teams.
• Develop future leaders within the organization through mentorship, career development planning, and succession planning.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Execution

• Partner closely with Manufacturing, Sales, and Quality teams to ensure seamless product launches and field performance.
• Drive compliance and safety standards —ensure adherence to design controls, testing protocols, and regulatory requirements across all development activities.
• Support M&A and portfolio integration activities —contribute to technical due diligence, integration planning, and knowledge transfer for acquired technologies.

Technical Leadership & Innovation

• Foster a culture of innovation —encourage patent generation, technical publications, and thought leadership within the team.
• Represent R&D in cross-functional forums , providing technical expertise and strategic input to leadership discussions.
• Engage with customers and partners to understand field challenges, gather requirements, and validate solutions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering (or related technical field).
• 7-10 years of progressive R&D experience in power systems, medium-voltage distribution, or related domains.
• 3-5 years of experience leading engineering teams delivering complex hardware, firmware, and/or software products.
• Domain expertise in medium-voltage power distribution (e.g., overhead line equipment, reclosers, circuit protection, switchgear) with strong understanding of industry standards and test methods.
• Hands-on experience with advanced simulation tools and AI/ML-enabled design within product development environments.
• Proven track record of cross-functional collaboration with PLM, Product Strategy, Manufacturing, and Sales teams.
• Strong project management skills —ability to manage multiple concurrent projects, drive execution, and deliver results on time.
• Ability to work on-site in the Wendell, NC area ; willingness to travel to labs, customer centers, manufacturing sites, and global R&D locations as needed.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States on a continual basis; relocation assistance may be available.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (M.S./Ph.D.) in Electrical/Power Systems, Mechatronics, or related fields.
• Foundational Technologies (FT) or utility industry background with deep understanding of distribution automation and grid modernization.
• Experience with knowledge transfer and technology integration from global R&D centers or M&A activities.
• Demonstrated patent portfolio or technical publications in relevant domains.
• Experience building teams in fast-paced, high-growth environments and implementing modern development practices at scale.
• Familiarity with Solid State Transformers (SST), DC distribution systems, or emerging grid technologies.
• Global/matrix organization experience ; comfort working across time zones and cultures.

About Siemens:

We are a global technology company focused on industry, infrastructure, transport, and healthcare. From more resource-efficient factories, resilient supply chains, and smarter buildings and grids, to sustainable transportation as well as advanced healthcare, we create technology with purpose adding real value for customers. Learn more about Siemens here .

Our Commitment to Equity and Inclusion in our Diverse Global Workforce:

We value your unique identity and perspective. We are fully committed to providing equitable opportunities and building a workplace that reflects the diversity of society, while ensuring that we attract the best talent based on qualifications, skills, and experiences. We welcome you to bring your authentic self and transform the everyday with us.

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