R&D Manager

Strategy and Leadership

Define and execute the US R&D and Product Development strategy to align with our growth objectives
Lead a high-performing engineering team across multiple disciplines (electrical, mechanical, controls)
Collaborate with peer teams across the business to ensure seamless product lifecycle management
Shaping CEL's technical roadmap and ensuring alignment with commercial and operational goals

Product Development

Own the end-to-end R&D / Product Development process from concept to launch
Utilise FOK methodology to ensure the proposed design meets production Takt Time, Quality and Technical specifications
Drive innovation in switchgear design, focusing on modularity, scalability, and performance
Ensure all products meet global standards and customer specifications with regular compliance reviews
Implement robust DFM and NPI processes to support efficient supplier manufacturing processes, in-house assembly methods and integration to existing production flows
Sustain CI methods, using Lean Principles and AI tools, to deliver process efficiencies in engineering
Develop and maintain engineering documentation, designs, BOMs, and design validation protocols

Process & Systems

Work closely with our Irish teams to standardize processes and develop a unified "One-CEL" approach
Support the business to align engineering outputs with customer projects, supply chain, production and project management capabilities
Ensure all designs comply with customer requirements, industry standards and regulatory requirements
Champion Quality Assurance throughout the design, development and implementation phases
Assume full responsibility and a committed focus on delivering 'Best-in-Class' products for customers
Streamline engineering systems, optimise workflows to reduce waste and improve throughput
Provide accurate, timely and consistent engineering reports, identifying clear escalation paths / solutions

Collaboration & Integration

Build, mentor, and lead a team fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and operational discipline
Deep commercial awareness with the ability to produce economically viable and repeatable designs
Excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal and change management skills
Demonstrated commitment to ensure our business goals and your functional goals are met / exceeded
Highly energetic and curious with the ability to empower your teams to 'push-the-envelope' to drive CEL to be the best supplier in our industry
Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, with strong analytical skills which drive decision making

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• 5+ yrs experience in engineering leadership roles within switchgear, power systems or related industries
• Proven track record in R&D, product development, and innovation
• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, DFM, and CI methodologies
• Utilise a hands-on, collaborative leadership style to your team, leading by example at all times