Research & Development (R&D) Senior Manager

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Research & Development (R&D) Senior Manager to lead our efforts in advancing next-generation in airport systems, including baggage handling systems (BHS), apron operations, and cargo logistics. This role is central to driving innovation, integrating emerging technologies, and developing sustainable, cost-effective, and high-performance baggage solutions that transform airport operations globally.

Company Overview

Founded in 1971, BNP Associates, Inc. is a full-service consulting and engineering firm specializing in airport and warehousing infrastructure projects worldwide. Over its 54+ years of operation, BNP has completed thousands of projects, from small terminal projects to the world's largest mechanized material handling systems.

We are recognized for our leadership in baggage handling systems, checked baggage security screening, aircraft apron systems, air cargo terminals, and construction administration. Our clients include airlines, airports, government agencies, and transportation infrastructure specialists worldwide. BNP serves as a key design partner for complex projects that drive the future of air transportation and logistics.

BNP employs over 160 professionals across twelve offices worldwide, including New Zealand, China, the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Singapore. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to our growth and innovation and work with some of the leading professionals in the field.

Purpose of the R&D Function

The R&D function at BNP exists to:

• Advance the future of baggage handling systems through applied research and technical development.
• Explore and validate emerging technologies that enhance operational efficiency, sustainability, and adaptability in airport environments.
• Deliver innovation through whitepapers, prototype solutions, and updated specifications that shape industry standards.
• Explore integrated solutions across baggage, cargo, and apron systems to enhance airport-wide operational efficiency and safety.

Key Focus Areas

• System Design Innovation: Develop and evaluate next-generation BHS layouts and automation strategies to reduce footprint, increase throughput, minimize manual handling, and improve flexibility.
• Technology Integration: Assess and adopt cutting-edge technologies, including AI/ML, IoT sensors, robotics, autonomous vehicles, and digital twins.
• Sustainability & Cost Efficiency: Investigate sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and life-cycle design principles to reduce environmental impact and operational costs.
• Prototyping & Testing: Collaborate with industry partners and the internal simulation team to simulate, test, and validate new BHS solutions.
• Thought Leadership: Publish whitepapers and technical insights that establish BNP as an industry leader in baggage systems innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Research & Innovation

• Identify and explore emerging technologies (e.g., AI, robotics, RFID, digital twins) relevant to BHS.
• Benchmark global best practices and BHS technologies used across leading airports.
• Evaluate the feasibility, cost, and performance improvements of new concepts.
• Design and simulate innovative BHS layouts and components.
• Lead development of modular and scalable systems suitable for various airport scales.
• Collaborate with academia, suppliers, and partners to drive innovation.

Technical Documentation & Industry Engagement

• Produce technical whitepapers, feasibility studies, research reports, and technology roadmaps.
• Maintain a central technical library and internal knowledge base.
• Present research findings at internal briefings, industry forums, and client workshops.
• Collaborate with marketing to publicize innovative work and organise the company's Innovation conference for airport and airline clients.
• Update technical specifications boilerplate to reflect emerging technologies and evolving best practices.
• Organize internal knowledge-sharing sessions.

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Work closely with internal design, engineering, simulation, and project management teams to translate R&D outputs into actionable designs.
• Engage with airport clients to align R&D activities with operational needs.
• Coordinate with suppliers and universities for collaborative research and validation.

Product Testing & Industry Approvals

• Lead the internal process for industry product testing and certification.
• Build institutional knowledge through structured exposure to industry partners and hands-on testing.

Key Deliverables

• Establish R&D partnerships with academic institutions, securing at least one (1) university collaboration within the first 6–8 months.
• Initiate strategic supplier engagement, forming collaborative relationships with three to four (3–4) suppliers within the first year.
• Conduct monthly management briefings and bi-monthly internal presentations to ensure alignment and transparency.
• Produce a minimum of three (3) innovation-focused or Proof of Concept whitepapers annually to share insights and demonstrate thought leadership.
• Perform an annual review and update of BHS specifications informed by research findings and operational feedback.
• Deliver new or revised specification documents that incorporate emerging technologies and industry advancements.
• Develop best practice guidelines for prototyping and integrating new solutions into airport operations, with completion targeted by Q6.

Candidate Profile

We're looking for someone with:

• A passion for airport innovation and system design.
• Strong technical expertise across engineering, automation, and digital technologies.
• Demonstrated experience in R&D, product development, or technical innovation roles.
• Ability to think strategically and work collaboratively across departments and with external partners.
• Excellent Communication skills

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• A bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, or related discipline) is required.

Professional Experience

• Minimum 8–10 years of experience in research and development, engineering design, or innovation within complex industrial systems —ideally in airport systems, automation, logistics, material handling, or transportation infrastructure.
• Proven track record of leading R&D projects, technology evaluations, and prototyping initiatives from concept through to testing or deployment.
• Experience working with emerging technologies (e.g., AI/ML, robotics, digital twins, IoT) in a practical or applied research setting.

Skills & Competencies 

• Strong understanding of baggage handling systems, airport operations, or similar automated infrastructure.
• Familiarity with sustainability principles and cost-benefit analysis for system components and design strategies.
• Experience developing and maintaining technical documentation, specifications, and whitepapers.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and systems-thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Effective collaboration and stakeholder management skills across internal teams, suppliers, academia, and clients.
• A mindset of curiosity, continuous learning, and innovation.
• Experience managing cross-functional teams, research partnerships, or collaborative innovation programs is a plus.

Additional Assets (Nice to Have)

• Experience with airport apron systems, cargo handling, or logistics automation.
• Involvement in industry forums, working groups, or publication in technical journals.

Working Conditions

• This is a full-time position based in one of our BNP offices, including Denver, Chicago, Dallas, Tampa, Fairfield, Singapore, London, or Dubai.  The role requires occasional travel. The successful candidate must pass criminal background checks and screening to obtain airport security badges.
• Standard 40-hour work week with occasional additional time required to meet deadlines.
• Projects that the successful candidate will participate in will require background checks and may require drug screening. 

SALARY

• $100k - $160k USD annually, commensurate with experience, skills, qualifications. Location will also be considered. 

Benefits (U.S.-based)

We are an equal opportunity employer. BNP offers an excellent benefits package and competitive salaries, along with professional advancement opportunities. Our benefits include the following:

• Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
• 401(K)
• Paid holidays and vacation/personal time
• Annual Salary Reviews.
• Annual Bonus Consideration.
• Compliance with all US mandatory employer contributions
• Advancement opportunities, we believe in investing in those who want to invest in us

For employees based outside of the U.S., benefits will be aligned as closely as possible with our U.S. offerings, while also complying with local employment laws and standards.

As an equal opportunity employer, we're committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace where everyone feels valued. We comply with all local laws, health and safety guidelines, and client requirements. If you need any accommodations during the hiring process or on the job, just let us know — we're here to help.