Manager Technical Engineering – Home Standby and Portable Generators Lab
Generac · Waukesha, WI · 2 wk ago
On-siteEngineeringFull-time
About the role
The Manager Technical Engineering – Home Standby and Portable Generators Lab is responsible for leading and managing multi-discipline test laboratory operations supporting the Home Generation division, including Home Standby Generators, Chore products, Portable Generators, Alternators, and Transfer Switch systems.
Responsibilities
- Manage test laboratory operations supporting Chore, Portable, Alternator, Transfer Switch, and Home Standby Generator labs
- Lead lab supervisors, engineers, and technicians across multiple test disciplines
- Align resources to prioritized programs for Home Generation product roadmaps
- Ensure safe, compliant operation of all lab facilities, equipment, and test systems
- Drive timely execution of verification, validation, compliance, durability, and lifecycle testing
- Partner with Product Engineering teams to define test strategies, coverage, and priorities
- Manage operating budgets, capital investments, and external test resources
- Ensure equipment readiness, calibration, maintenance, and utilization effectiveness
- Drive lab performance metrics including throughput, schedule adherence, data quality, and cost
- Drive laboratory performance metrics including throughput, utilization, and data quality
- Recruit, develop, coach, and retain high-performing technical and leadership talent
- Provide technical leadership across mechanical, electrical, controls, and integrated system testing
- Support test planning and scheduling aligned to program milestones
- Interface cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Quality, Compliance, Supply Chain, and Service teams
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives in lab processes, safety, and operational efficiency
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement
Requirements
- Associates degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or equivalent
- 10 years of progressive engineering experience
- 4 years of people leadership and laboratory or development organization management
- Strong understanding of generator systems, alternators, transfer switches, and integrated power solutions
- Demonstrated ability to lead diverse technical teams across multiple labs and product lines
- Strong organizational, planning, and execution skills in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Results-driven mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and product quality
Preferred Job Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering
- 15 years of engineering experience
- Experience with laboratory safety systems
- Experience leading product test laboratories in R&D or sustainment environments
- Experience testing engine-driven, electrical, power generation equipment, or outdoor power equipment
- Experience with Home Standby Generators, Portable Generators, or adjacent power products
- Experience supporting alternators, transfer switch, or power switching systems
- Experience with data acquisition systems, load banks, and fuel systems
- Demonstrated root-cause analysis, failure investigation, and corrective action leadership
- Knowledge of applicable regulatory and certification standards (UL, CSA, EPA, CARB, NEC, etc.)
- Familiarity with engine, alternator, power electronics, controls, and switching systems testing
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
- While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls.
- The employee is regularly required to stand and walk.
- On occasion, the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend, or reach above the shoulders.
- The employee must occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
- Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
- Occasional travel.