Job Description

Research and Development Engineering Manager

About the Role: Our client, a global provider of custom automation solutions, is seeking a Research and Development Engineering Manager to lead product innovation efforts. This role focuses on transforming customer insights into advanced machining solutions, shaping product vision, and driving strategic growth in new and adjacent markets.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership: Inspire and develop high-performing teams, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and lead with integrity through change.
• Customer Insights: Gather and analyze technical feedback from customers to identify unmet needs and innovation opportunities (VOC). Conduct plant visits to observe operations and collaborate with personnel to streamline processes.
• Product Strategy: Define and communicate product vision and roadmap. Conduct market research and stay ahead of industry trends to guide development and rationalization efforts.
• Monetization: Translate insights into profitable solutions. Evaluate market opportunities and build ROI justifications to support new ideas.
• Technical Development: Support the creation of complex technical solutions and collaborate with engineering teams to ensure feasibility and innovation.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 7+ years in automation design, preferably in custom machinery industry (OEM)
• Proven success in product innovation and VOC methodologies
• Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills
• Excellent problem-solving and communication abilities
• Willingness to travel up to 20%

Preferred Experience:

• Background in automated custom machinery innovation and design

Core Values:

• Service: Supporting customers, colleagues, and the community
• Innovation: Solving unique machining solutions
• Motivation: Driven by purpose and impact
• Partnership: Building strong relationships through empathy
• Leadership: Turning goals into realities
• Excellence: Delivering top-tier performance