Research Project Manager

Copeland • Sidney, OH

4d

About The Position

Copeland is seeking an experienced Research Project Manager to manage research initiatives from conception to completion and coordinate and guide R&D projects in compressors and other alternative technologies for HVACR applications. The role drives innovation by liaising with stakeholders to identify new opportunities and develop them into research projects with clearly defined scopes and goals. It is suited to candidates with project leadership experience in mechanical or rotating-equipment R&D, turbomachinery, or compressor product development. The position requires approximately 5% travel as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 5–10+ years of progressive project management experience in R&D, engineering, or product development involving compressors, turbomachinery, rotating equipment, or similar high-performance systems.
• Strong knowledge of high-speed rotating equipment, design tools, testing methodologies, and industry standards.
• Demonstrated record of leading complex technical projects from concept through prototype or validation.
• Mastery of project management skills, including project planning, risk management, and cross-functional coordination.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and stakeholder management abilities to work with engineers, executives, customers, and global teams.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with vapor compression technologies in HVACR applications.
• PMP certification.

Responsibilities

• Define project scope and clear goals so team members can develop project plans, objectives, and timelines to meet deliverables.
• Engage business units to identify research opportunities through product roadmaps and future product needs.
• Facilitate collaboration and alignment with cross-functional teams, including procurement and manufacturing, to support the transition of projects from R&D to new product development.
• Conduct competitive analysis, including actively reviewing compressor patents, distributing patents to relevant parties to provide visibility into competitive interest and trends, and participating in patent reviews as needed.
• Provide clear, impactful project status reports to business unit and steering committee leaders, covering progress, risks, and key outcomes.
• Promote project management best practices within the research team through coaching and mentoring.

Benefits

• Medical insurance plans.
• Dental and vision coverage.
• 401(k).
• Flexible time off plans.
• Paid parental leave.
• Vacation leave.
• Holiday leave.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level