R&D Project Manager

Oetiker provides customers with the peace of mind that their mission-critical components are reliably connected. We are a global leader in high-end connecting solutions for the vehicle industry and for high-value applications in industrial segments. Our expertise in high-quality clamps, rings, straps and quick-connectors ranges from powertrain and drivetrain applications to medical applications. We offer engineering, prototyping and testing support to quickly create comprehensive solutions for overcoming clamping and connecting challenges. With 1800+ employees in more than 30 countries and over 75 years of experience, we are the trusted, global, long-term partner for the world’s leading OEMs.

About the role

This role manages R&D development projects of mechanical and electro-mechanical hand tools in the field of mission-critical connecting applications. The role holder is responsible for driving global product development projects based on innovative technologies and state-of-the-art manufacturing processes. This is an end-to-end responsibility from conceptualization to product launch with the task to fulfill ambitious time-to-market, quality, and cost deliverables. The role demands a high degree of competence and confidence in global stakeholder management with the ultimate goal to deliver maximum business success.

Responsibilities

• Project management from idea to series production, including contribution to product and process development activities, while meeting quality, cost, and time (QCT) deliverables
• Responsible for deliverables of all relevant project work packages; plans, tracks, and reports project progress
• Leads cross-functional project team and drives proactive stakeholder management
• Liaises with Application Management for the overall project accountability
• Prepares, leads, and documents team, project, and technical meetings
• Analyzes market and technical requirements and plans relevant activities
• Defines and tracks measurable criteria for product and process realization
• Initiates feasibility studies to evaluate possible concepts, including risk analysis regarding project fulfillment
• Directly supervises the manufacturing process of sample parts and consolidates results from basic and functional tests up to series release
• Oversees overall risk management, including design and process FMEAs
• Drives Design-for-Six-Sigma deliverables, including design robustness (e.g., FEA) and reliability (e.g., R&R) activities
• Develops and maintains contacts with strategic customers and partners (e.g., universities)
• Further tasks as instructed by global Head R&D

Requirements

• 5+ years experience as Project Manager, or equivalent role, preferably in automotive or a global OEM environment
• Higher degree in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering (BSc, MSc) combined with relevant work experience
• Experienced in 3D-CAD software, preferably in SolidWorks
• Experienced in the development of electro-mechanical products
• Experienced in Quality Systems such as IATF 16949 and ISO 9001
• Outstanding oral and written communication and presentation skills in English

Skills

• Proven drive (energy, determination, motivation) and a can-do mentality
• Excellent project management skills with relevant experience in new product development and industrialization
• Strong leadership and communication skills paired with innovative thinking
• Precise working style with a high commitment to quality
• Proven analytical and engineering expertise (Design for Six Sigma, Finite Element Analysis)
• Excellent understanding of broader business environment and application of business-relevant intelligence during project execution
• Good interpersonal skills with ability to communicate and negotiate effectively across all levels and all functions of the organization
• Team player valuing people, fair, high integrity, emotionally mature with a high degree of intellectual curiosity

Additional Information

The incumbent will be part of the global R&D team, contributing to global projects and activities. Global travel is required (approximately 5%).