Research and Development Engineering Manager

Research and Development Engineering ManagerThe Lee Company is a global leader in the design and production of miniature, precision fluid control components for the aerospace, medical/scientific instrument, oil tool, and automotive industries.Lee Company products are recognized worldwide for quality, reliability, and performance. Founded in 1948, The Lee Company occupies over one million sq. ft. of manufacturing and office space at four sites in Westbrook and Essex, Connecticut, and employs over 1,000 people.Job Description:Reporting to the Director of Innovation, the Chief Engineer is a pivotal technical leader within The Lee Company's Innovation Center, responsible for guiding the technical direction, execution, and successful delivery of advanced R&D projects. Translate strategic innovation objectives into actionable technical plans, lead a team of engineers, and ensure successful development and transition of new products and technologies from the Innovation Center to Product Groups.Qualifications:B.S. and/or M.S. in Engineering or related field from a recognized, fully accredited program, ideally paired with experience in hydraulics and fluid control.7–10 years related Engineering experience; ideally 20+ years of experience related to NPD or R&D.Blend of deep technical expertise, strong project management skills, and exceptional leadership abilities to foster a culture of innovation and excellence within the engineering team.Desire to learn, solid understanding of engineering principles, and a passion for designing creative solutions to challenging problems.Advanced 3D CAD and PDM user; SolidWorks experience preferred.Experience with R&D prototype and testing lab environment.Ability to work under limited supervision.Ability to travel to support innovation initiatives and collaboration.Comfortable with the uncertainty of innovation.Responsibilities:Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of Senior Engineers, Project Engineers, and other technical staff, fostering openness and teamwork to drive innovation.Conduct performance reviews, provide constructive feedback, and support professional growth of team members.Promote a culture of intellectual curiosity, problem-solving, and continuous learning within the engineering group.Delegate tasks effectively and empower engineers to own their projects and technical challenges.Serve as a primary technical expert and advisor to the Director of Innovation.Provide technical guidance and oversight for the design, development, qualification, and production of micro-fluidic and hydraulic components, applying sound engineering principles.Collaborate with the Director of Innovation to define technical roadmaps and strategies that align with company objectives.Drive exploration and implementation of new development and production technologies where capital investment by product groups is impractical.Stay abreast of industry and technology trends, attending key industry events to inform technical direction.Oversee and manage multiple complex R&D projects within timelines and budget.Develop and implement project plans and deliverables, ensuring successful hand-off of projects from the Innovation Center to product groups.Lead the engineering team in applying research theories, principles, and models to experiments and research activities.Ensure development of suitable technical documentation for all projects.Hire, orient, train, supervise, develop, coach, discipline, and conduct performance evaluations for subordinate personnel.The Lee Company Advantages:The Lee Company offers opportunities for career growth in a stable, well-managed company with benefits including company-paid health insurance, profit sharing, tuition reimbursement, and daycare subsidy. The Lee Company is located in southern New England in a rural, campus setting close to the Long Island Sound.Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.Job detailsSeniority level: DirectorEmployment type: Full-timeJob function: Engineering, Management, and ManufacturingIndustries: Defense and Space Manufacturing, Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing, and Medical Equipment ManufacturingGet notified about new Research and Development Engineering Manager jobs in Westbrook, CT. #J-18808-Ljbffr