The Lignum Group · 20 hours ago
Research And Development Manager
Columbia, MD
Full-time
Onsite
Lead/Staff, Director/Executive
2+ years expThe Lignum Group is seeking an experienced R&D Manager to lead and grow a multidisciplinary research and development function. This role involves defining and executing the R&D strategy, guiding complex technical programs, and developing a high-performing team of engineers across mechanical, structural, and thermal disciplines.
Staffing & Recruiting
Hiring Manager
Likhona Mpambane
Responsibilities
Lead and develop the R&D function across thermal and structural engineering disciplines
Define and execute R&D strategy aligned with business and product goals
Balance innovation with manufacturability, cost, and commercial viability
Oversee design, simulation, prototyping, and validation programs
Guide and review the use of advanced tools including CFD, FEA, and structural analysis
Provide hands-on technical leadership and mentorship to engineers
Drive integration between thermal and structural systems within modular data center products
Optimize system performance, scalability, and ease of installation
Ensure engineered solutions meet customer, regulatory, and operational requirements
Partner with Product Management, Operations, and Sales Engineering to translate market needs into engineered solutions
Support customer-facing technical discussions and solution development
Engage suppliers, research partners, and customers to inform technology direction
Manage R&D programs to ensure milestones, budgets, timelines, and quality standards are met
Establish and refine R&D processes for design reviews, documentation, and testing
Drive rigor, repeatability, and continuous improvement across the R&D lifecycle
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field
X+ years of experience in R&D or product development within thermal management, HVAC, or structural steel systems
2–4+ years in a leadership or management role overseeing cross-disciplinary engineering teams
Proven track record of taking complex engineered systems from concept through production
Strong experience guiding and reviewing simulation and analysis work (CFD, FEA, structural modeling)
Deep technical foundation across both thermal and structural disciplines
Strong people leadership, mentoring, and team-building skills
Commercially aware with a practical approach to innovation
Confident communicator able to influence senior stakeholders and customers
Highly organized, proactive, and comfortable building structure within a growing function
Preferred
Master's degree
Experience in data centers, modular construction, or industrial infrastructure highly desirable
Company
The Lignum Group
In construction, talent can be hard to find. It’s an industry built on relationships, priding itself on attracting and retaining the best talent.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageCompany data provided by crunchbase