Research & Development (R&D) Associate in Houston, Texas at SentriForce

About the Role:

The Research & Development (R&D) Associate will help identify, evaluate, test, and introduce new technologies that advance SentriForce’s video surveillance, monitoring, and security solutions. This hands-on role combines technology research, product testing, problem solving, and business analysis to determine how emerging technologies can be applied in real-world environments. Working across Sales, Operations, Monitoring, and other teams, the R&D Associate will help turn promising technologies into practical, scalable solutions that improve SentriForce’s products, services, and competitive position.

Key Responsibilities:
•Research emerging hardware, software, AI, analytics, cloud, connectivity, surveillance, and other technologies relevant to SentriForce’s business.
•Evaluate and test cameras, components, software platforms, AI applications, analytics tools, and other potential solutions.
•Assess performance, reliability, scalability, cybersecurity, integration capabilities, operational impact, and overall business value.
•Develop and execute testing plans, document results, and provide clear recommendations based on technical and business findings.
•Conduct cost-benefit and ROI analyses to support technology and product decisions.
•Collaborate with Sales, Operations, Monitoring, and other teams to identify needs, validate requirements, and evaluate potential solutions.
•Conduct with proof-of-concept testing, pilot programs, system integration, and deployment of new technologies.
•Work with technology vendors and manufacturers to coordinate demonstrations, product evaluations, trials, and testing.
•Monitor industry trends, competitor offerings, and technological advancements to identify new opportunities.
•Present findings, recommendations, and project updates to management and key stakeholders.

Qualifications:
Education & Experience:
•Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Security Technology, Business, or a related field preferred; equivalent education, technical training, and relevant experience will be considered.
•Experience in technology research, product testing, systems integration, surveillance/security technology, or a related technical environment preferred.
•Experience with construction technology or temporary/remote security deployments is a plus but not required.
•Hands-on experience assembling, wiring, configuring, testing, and troubleshooting physical technology systems.
•Experience with low-voltage wiring, Ethernet/Cat5e/Cat6 cabling, PoE devices, cameras, network equipment, power supplies, electronic components, and basic electrical test equipment is strongly preferred.
Technical Knowledge:
Familiarity with some combination of IP cameras and video surveillance systems, VMS platforms, networking (TCP/IP, PoE, cellular and wireless connectivity), cloud platforms, APIs and integrations, AI/computer vision and video analytics, edge computing, servers and storage, cybersecurity fundamentals, and IoT/remote monitoring technologies.

Key Competencies:
•Technical Aptitude & Curiosity: Able to quickly learn and evaluate new hardware, software, platforms, and technical concepts.
•Candidates should be comfortable building and modifying prototypes, diagnosing physical hardware and connectivity issues, and working with equipment in both lab and field environments.
•Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Able to research alternatives, test assumptions, analyze results, and develop practical recommendations.
•Hands-On Technical Ability: Comfortable configuring, testing, and troubleshooting hardware and software.
•Business Acumen: Understands how cost, scalability, operational impact, customer value, and ROI factor into technology decisions.
•Communication & Collaboration: Able to clearly communicate technical findings to technical and non-technical audiences and work effectively across departments.
•Organization & Ownership: Detail-oriented, self-motivated, adaptable, and capable of managing multiple evaluations and projects.

Compensation & Benefits:
Benefits:
•401(k) matching
•Dental insurance
•Health insurance
•Life insurance
•Paid time off
•Vision insurance

Compensation Package:
•Salary

Schedule:
4 days a week with 10 hour shifts

License/Certification:
•None

Ability to Relocate:
•Houston, Texas

Work Location: Houston, Texas (in person)

Culture Fit: At our company, we value individuals who are analytical, detail-oriented, and process-driven. We are looking for someone who is comfortable working independently, but also capable of leading a team to drive results.