Research & Development Manager

Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co Inc•Wausau, WI

27d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Manager of Research & Development (R&D) is responsible for leading the development, testing, and continuous improvement of residential window and door products. This role oversees design validation, material evaluation, performance testing, and cross-functional product development activities to support company growth, regulatory compliance, manufacturability, and customer satisfaction. The R&D Manager collaborates closely with Manufacturing, Marketing, Quality, Supply Chain, and Sales teams to successfully launch new products and product enhancements into the residential fenestration market.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related technical field required.
7–10+ years of product development or engineering experience.
Preference given to experience within the residential window and door, building products, or fenestration industry.
3–5 years of leadership or management experience.
Experience with APQP and/or stage-gate product development processes.
Experience with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Inventor.
Understanding of thermal analysis, structural analysis, and product testing methods.
Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
Familiarity with extrusion design, tooling, and profile optimization.
Experience with ERP/PLM systems.
End-to-end product ownership
Structured problem solving and root cause analysis
Detail-oriented documentation and change management
Customer- and market-focused design mindset
Ability to balance innovation, performance, cost, and manufacturability

Responsibilities

Lead the research, design, and development of new residential window and door products and systems.
Manage product improvements, cost reduction initiatives, and value engineering projects.
Identify new technologies, materials, hardware, glazing systems, and design trends within the fenestration industry.
Support innovation initiatives focused on energy efficiency, sustainability, acoustics, durability, and ease of manufacturing.
Manage multiple R&D projects from concept through commercialization.
Develop and maintain project schedules, milestones, budgets, and deliverables.
Lead design reviews, risk assessments, FMEA activities and communicate project status to leadership.
Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure successful product launches.
Ensure projects meet timeline, cost, and performance objectives.
Ensure product compliance with applicable standards and codes.
Inspire, mentor, and develop a team of Product Engineers and Product Designers.
Clearly communicate department goals, priorities, performance expectations, and strategic vision.
Foster a culture of creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Support recruiting, training, and employee development initiatives, to ensure an environment of trust and unity.
Collaborate with Manufacturing and Process Engineering to ensure products are manufacturable and cost effective.
Support troubleshooting of field and production-related product issues.
Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities.
Oversee the development of installation methods, work instructions, and technical documentation.
Work with suppliers to evaluate new materials, components, and technologies.
Support Sales and Marketing with technical product information and competitive analysis.
Participate in customer visits, industry trade shows, and technical presentations as needed.