R&D Engineering Manager

About the role

A growing employee-owned manufacturer with a global footprint is seeking a Research & Development Engineering Manager to lead innovation initiatives, identify emerging product opportunities, and drive new product development efforts from concept through commercialization. This is a highly visible role that combines technical engineering expertise with market awareness, customer engagement, and strategic thinking.

Responsibilities

• Lead new product development initiatives from concept through commercialization
• Research emerging technologies, market trends, and customer needs
• Participate in customer meetings, trade shows, conferences, and industry events
• Evaluate manufacturability, performance, scalability, and cost considerations
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, quality, and commercial teams
• Develop innovative solutions that align with strategic growth objectives
• Present recommendations and product opportunities to leadership

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Optical/Photonics Engineering, Illuminating Engineering, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in R&D, product development, innovation engineering, or product design
• Experience bringing products from concept through commercialization

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
• Experience with 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred)

Skills

• Excellent project management and communication skills
• Customer-facing experience and strong business acumen

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Paid time off and paid volunteer time
• Company shutdown between Christmas and New Year's
• Short- and long-term disability coverage

Pay

• Base salary: $135,000‑$150,000
• Quarterly performance‑based bonus opportunities
• Year‑end bonus potential
• Annual discretionary bonus (eligible)