R&D Project Manager

This role manages R&D development projects of mechanical and electro-mechanical hand tool 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. Essential Functions Project management from idea to series production, incl. 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, drives proactive stakeholder management Liaises with Application Management for the overall project accountability Prepares, leads and documents team, project and technical meetings Analyses 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, incl. design and process FMEA's Drives Design-for-Six-Sigma deliverables, incl. 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 Knowledge, Skills, Abilities 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 Experience & Qualification 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 The incumbent will be part of the global R&D team, contributing to global projects and activities. Global travel is required (approx 5%). 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.