Sr. Engineer Technical Leader – Product and R&D

SUMMARY PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsible for coordination of complex and multi-disciplined engineering projects from concept thru implementation to delivering results.  Coordinates all work within the scope of assigned projects to ensure objectives in terms of quality, cost, and time are met.  Follows the structure of Pella’s Safety, Quality, Project Management & Continuous Improvement Systems from concept through project execution and results. Approves product/process design and prepares engineering documents; such as cost estimates, appropriation requests, projects schedules, design specifications, instruction specifications, purchase requisitions, operating manuals, and technical reports.  Assures that contracts are awarded to the outside vendors that offer the best value and appropriate quality.  Responsible for effective communication of engineering information among team members and stakeholders.  May supervise assigned technical team members and coordinates their work within the scope of assigned responsibilities.  A constant learner who serves as an expert resource across the organization, providing technical information, and engineering recommendations that influence projects and business imperatives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 

SCOPE:

Capable of working independently and with minimal direction on complex projects.  Also responsible for the advancement and application of engineering technologies and processes.  (Specifically in the areas of product innovation and design including the tools and processes used to manufacture these products).

 

SUPERVISING OTHERS:

Primarily an individual contributor role that influences others.  Capable of leading a team in complex technical projects from development through implementation.  Serves as a mentor and coach to others in area of expertise.  May supervise exempt, non-exempt, and hourly employees.

 

APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE:

Develops and evaluates plans and criteria for a variety of projects and activities.  Plans, schedules, and coordinates detailed phases of a project or task. 

 

Technology process owner; responsible for developing and applying knowledge across multiple disciplines and across the organization.

 

Assesses the feasibility and soundness of proposed approaches, techniques or equipment when necessary data are insufficient. Performs as requested as advisor and consultant relative to a scientific or engineering specialty or a product function (Product Innovation and Research & Development).  Carries out assignments requiring the development of new or improved techniques and procedures.  Possesses in-depth problem solving skills utilized to determine and address root cause.  Work results in the development of refined equipment, materials, processes, products, technologies, and/or scientific methods.

 

JUDGMENT:

Plans and coordinates work requiring independent judgment in the evaluation, selection, and adaptation of advanced techniques and processes.  Knowledge and judgment have a direct effect on advancement of assigned technology and business results.

 

Responsibilities:  Develop and commercialize products and technologies. Initiate approaches and low-cost innovations to maintain technical leadership. Prepare cost estimates and continually analyze design variables. Build prototypes, products, and systems for testing. Ensure final product meets needs as defined by project. Design testing procedures and coordinate testing to identify problems and solutions. Conduct tests, document test results, and develop client presentation. Provide user training and technical support. Coordinate and communicate work effort within organization. Identify and keep abreast of novel technical concepts and markets. Assist in publication of papers and applications for patents. 

 

Supervisory responsibilities:  No direct reports, however may direct activity for 1-3 Laboratory Technicians and/or Engineers on a project basis

Work hours: Normal + irregular hours/shifts required

Travel expectations: Moderate; travel to other sites and divisions is required and varies based upon business needs  

Computer skills: Microsoft Office applications and computer modeling tools 

Technical / functional skills: Familiarity with material standards and ability to develop test methods where current standards are inadequate.  Ability to correlate lab results with field performance. Skill to conduct effective technical research in the advancement of current and new technologies.

Safety:  Periodically exposed to machinery where safe operating procedures must be followed, occasional lifting of materials up to 30 lbs. is required, laboratory environment may be noisy 

 

QUALIFICATIONS 

 

EXPERIENCE:

7+ years combined engineering experience within 2-3 disciplines (Process, Product, CI, Project, Quality, Plant).

 

EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT: