Engineering Manager - Product Validation

Job Description Position Purpose: Responsible for leadership of the Research and Development laboratory of the Trailer Division. Manages the operations of equipment and personnel for the safe & efficient throughput of physical testing and the material analysis group. Reviews and approves product validation and qualification reports. Works collaboratively with other engineering technical leaders to develop and maintain state-of-the-art testing and evaluation technologies for optimizing product development programs. Management of direct reports including Engineers, Supervisors, Coordinators, and Technicians. Essential Functions: * Ensures safety in the office and laboratory and maintains OSHA VPP Star Certification * Effectively manages technical professionals, provides leadership, coaching, and opportunities for employee development * Develops and reviews key performance metrics to ensure efficient throughput of testing projects * Leads structural and dynamic performance testing of current and proposed products * Leads laboratory evaluation and proving ground testing * Manages validation and sign-off documentation in support of the product development and product change processes * Develops the annual department budget, while monitoring and controlling labor, material, and capital expenditures * Performs annual tax credit review of R&D project hours * Works with Test Laboratory Supervisor to maintain equipment health and maximize test machine uptime * Collaborates with other Hendrickson Division Validation groups in support of continuous improvement and Validation Excellence initiatives * Drives continuous improvement through adoption of more efficient evaluation techniques Education and Training * A Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field is required, or equivalent demonstrated industry experience in a technical leadership position Minimum Qualifications * 8-10 years engineering experience in automotive (preferably commercial vehicles), heavy equipment, or related industry is desired * Three years of experience with the supervision of technical professionals * Demonstrated experience in structural design, including fatigue analysis and life prediction techniques is required * Demonstrated experience with multi-axis servo hydraulic test equipment operation is desired * A thorough understanding of engineering fundamentals is required * Strong mechanical aptitude and the desire for hands-on understanding of the product and associated physical testing is required * Familiarity with Finite Element Analysis methods and Multi-Body Dynamics is required Physical Demands * Ability to lift and maneuver up to 25lbs with occasional twisting, reaching, and out of position body placement * Ability to maneuver and guide objects heavier than 25lbs with assistance from a crane, hoist, or other lifting device * Ability to drive powered industrial truck to position test fixtures and test samples * Ability to physically work on the underside of a Class 8 trailer - use of a roll-around stool, knee pads, or creeper is encouraged. Ability to use precision tools with fine dexterity to affix sensors to test samples - may require out of position body placement