Research and Development (R&D) / Product Engineering Manager

Job DescriptionJob Description

C.F. Martin & Co.® has been making the finest handcrafted acoustic guitars since 1833. For the biggest names and the most revered musical legends. For the pioneers, the rebels, and the dreamers. For anyone who cares about music and loves making it.

There's a passion that runs through this organization. From our employees to our loyal customers to our business partners across the globe. This passion fuels our ambition to make the very best tools designed to help every artist share their music with the world for to come. Nearly 200 years of making great music. And we're ready for the next 200. Want to come with us?

General Purpose:

The R&D/Product Engineering Manager will have responsibility for managing the R&D team which includes product engineers and R&D technicians, assigning individual responsibilities and enforcing accountability, and developing and maintaining specific timelines and schedules to ensure timely completion of projects. The individual in this role interacts with all internal and industry partners, customers, suppliers, and luminaries to ensure the richest perspective is incorporated in the Company's research and product development creative processes. The R&D/Product Engineering Manager is responsible for developing and executing new product and material development and works with the Product Management team to bring these products to market. This includes leading and directing the R&D Team by distributing workload and ensuring motivation and performance levels are maintained. The R&D/Product Engineering Manager will work collaboratively with cross-functional teams within the Company to deliver new materials and products to our customers in the timeframe expected. This Manager formulates, administers, and/or conducts research projects and product development programs designed to assure enhancement of the corporation's competitive position and profitability of its operation. This individual will report to the Vice President - Product Management.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Manage and develop the department's resources with the goal of meeting or exceeding all deadlines and expectations.
• Develop new innovative material, processes, and products.
• Manage the new concept development and production scale up process.
• Accurately maintain R&D project records, proactively providing status reports as required.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing and Operations to achieve project objectives.
• Conduct research in areas including sound reinforcement, finish, construction materials and process validations.
• Provide technical assistance and, when necessary, provide problem solving support to the quality assurance and production functions.
• Liaise with suppliers for new products and materials.
• Source new materials to aid in the innovation process.
• Participate in the RFP process.
• Review and sign-off specifications.
• Manage sensory evaluations (sound testing) for commercialized products.
• Identify and advance quality and process improvement opportunities.
• Keep current with changes in technologies and regulation for the countries where we do business.
• Correlate department activities with marketing and other corporate strategic initiatives.
• Present to various internal teams to secure project approvals, project status, important developments or findings, benchmarking results, or other information with organization-wide implications.
• Conduct research and benchmarking to maintain an up-to-date assessment of competitors' products and processes. Benchmark and analyze competing products in terms of function, quality, and value.
• Prepare and manage the Research and Development department capital plan and operating budget.
• Track and manage all approved project costs within capital and operating budgetary constraints.
• Track, manage, and report all project post-implementation quality, throughput, and financial results.
• Keep abreast of current applicable technical, process, and product developments in and outside of the music products industry.
• Establish and maintain adequate records of formula, process methods, and product construction standards.
• Maintain adequate records to support any intellectual property action. Assist IP Counsel in obtaining protection for the corporation's inventions, trade dress, and trade secrets.
• Serve as a company tour guide for public tours and private technical or in-depth tours.
• Lead and mentor direct reports while providing developmental opportunities when available.
• Perform additional tasks as needs are identified by Vice President - Product Management.

Knowledge and Certifications:

• 3-5 years' management experience in instrument manufacturing, strings manufacturing, research and development or related functional area . Additional engineering, manufacturing management, process improvement, manufacturing support experience a plus.
• Demonstrated knowledge of instrument construction, string construction, and/or basic audio electronics theory and methods. Any significant lutherie or string construction experience is .
• Passion for creating music with acoustic guitars or other significant musical experience is .

Skills, Abilities, & Competencies:

• Proven ability to develop market-leading products and implement innovative strategies.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills at all organizational levels.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to leverage customer insights in decision-making.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and collaborate effectively with multiple departments.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Acoustic, Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, Electronics Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Metallurgy, Quality Systems, or equivalent experience required.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Ability to travel occasionally for industry events, trade shows, and customer meetings.
• Ability to navigate office and production areas as required.

Benefits:

At C. F. Martin & Co., Inc. we appreciate our team's commitment and contributions to our products, services, and the Company's success. We are pleased to provide a comprehensive employee benefits program designed to encourage health and wellness. These plans include but are not limited to:

• Paid Time Off & Company Holidays
• Comprehensive Insurance: Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription coverage, HSA, FSA, EAP, AFLAC, health advocate, Company Paid: Basic Life, AD&D, STD, LTD.

A condition of employment is that all candidates are required to complete a pre-employment drug screen and background check.