Illinois Tool Works

R&D Manager

Illinois Tool Works • $90K — $120K *
Lakeland, FL 33803In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
8 - 10 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, MS preferred
  • Experience with lubricant materials, particularly oils and industrial fluids for automotive use
  • 10+ years leading technical teams
  • Demonstrated success in fostering a collaborative, accountable environment
  • Innovative, flexible, and able to translate market ideas into tangible solutions
  • Proven experience with new product launches and innovation management
  • Strong analytical and decision-making skills, with a dedication to safety

Responsibilities

  • Support strategic planning through market analysis and competitive research
  • Supervise R&D operations including product formula development and testing
  • Cultivate a collaborative, accountable culture in the team
  • Manage product performance testing and competitive comparisons
  • Coordinate product development within the CarCare division
  • Explore new product development opportunities
  • Partner with the Marketing team to leverage market and technology insights

Benefits

  • Collaborative and innovative work environment
  • Opportunities for professional development and growth
  • Access to advanced technology and industry-leading practices
  • Engagement with cross-functional teams and external partners
  • Chance to impact product development and market strategies
Full Job Description

Job Description:

The R&DManageris a key contributor to the successful development and execution ofthe Business Unitgrowth initiatives byhaving a deep understanding ofmarket trends, assessing emerging technologies and their relevance toProAPproducts and services. This role bringsbest-in-class ideationand innovationtechniques that deliver a pipeline of creative, new products that address customer pain points and create a sustained, differentiatedportfoliothat will fuelprofitable growth forthe Business Unit.

KEYRESPONSIBILITIES

  • Support Business Unit Strategic Planningprocessto includemarket technology trends,competitive analysis,claims development andthe evaluation and recommendation of business strategies and tactics.

  • Supervisory responsibility over R&D includingnew technologydevelopment and testing, qualification, manufacturing scale-up of product formulas, and continuous product differentiation/process improvement.

  • Creates a collaborative, learning & accountable culture, working closely with customers, and delivering speed,quality& valueconsistently.

  • Formulation Expertise:

  • Ensuresthe R&D team has a deep understanding oflubricantchemistries and how these can be applied to create new product performance attributes that bring effective solutions to the automotive market.

  • Manages product performance testing, qualification/validation& competitivecomparisons.

  • Coordinates on product developmentwithinCarCaredivision asappropriate.

  • New product development, exploring solutions that create a pipeline of differentiated new products.

  • Leverages partnership withMarketingTeamregardingmarket knowledge, customerneeds, industrytrendsand advances in technology. Leads team to explore, test, and translate knowledge into tangible solutions.

  • Directs research and product development efforts and ensures keymilestones,project timelines and approved budgets are met.

  • Aligns business case withLeadership teamto deliver onKPIs.

  • Partner with other ITW divisions, supplierbase, universities and other relevant players to help the BU assess opportunities, buildcapabilitiesand accelerate pace of innovation.

  • Develop strong understanding ofITW80/20 management process and the Enterprise Strategyto execute on 80/20 initiatives.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This positionoverseestheR&D function.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelors degree in Chemistry, MS preferred

  • Experience with lubricant materials particularly with oils and industrial fluids used in automotives

  • 10+years experienceleadingTechnicalteams

  • Proven leader withdemonstratedsuccess in fostering a collaborative, accountable and solution-oriented environment

  • Must be innovative, flexible,curiousand haveexhibitedsuccess byidentifyingand successfully translating market ideas into tangible business solutions.

  • Must havedemonstratedsuccess in understanding and prioritizing speed and urgency based on changing market conditions.

  • Proven and successful new product launch experience, including intimate familiarity with innovationfunnel,stage-gateprocess,strong supplier relationships,maintainingISO standards and effective product lifecycle planning.

  • Intellectual curiosity, technicalacumenand strong analytical / decision making skills.

  • An exhibited dedication to Safety

  • Must have a desire to travel asrequired

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employeeis constantly required tostand; walk; climb. The employee must occasionally lift, push/pull, and or move up to 65 pounds. The employee mustpossessthe mandatory ability to react and move quickly in case of emergency. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depthperceptionand ability to adjust focus/accommodate.

RISKS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to the possibility of injury to the hands or feet and collision with moving equipment. The possibility of fire exists. On rareoccasion, the employee has the possibility of exposure (once a day) to electrical shock and battery explosion. The employee may also rarely come into contact with toxic / caustic chemicals from damagedproduct.

Working Conditions

While performing the duties of this job, the employee isfrequentlyexposed to moving mechanical parts and machinery. A strong citrus odor is present constantly in the work environment. The noise level in the work environment is moderate. Work is performed inside with moderate amounts of heat,coldand humidity encountered. Inside work can be dirty, with adequate lighting and ventilation. Conditions can include the presence of hazards such as flammable liquids, movingmachineryand working around and with others.

About Illinois Tool Works

ITW is an industrial manufacturing company that specializes in the fields of industrial machinery, engineering, operations, sales, marketing, finance, and accounting. It's in deep-sea oil rigs, aerospace technology, bridges and wind turbines, healthcare, the spaces in which they live and work, the cars they drive, and the mobile devices they rely on. It was founded in 1912 and headquartered in Glenview Nas, Illinois.

Illinois Tool Works Careers

Join the dynamic team at Illinois Tool Works (ITW), a global leader in diversified manufacturing, where innovation and excellence drive us forward. ITW offers unparalleled job opportunities, fostering a culture of growth and leadership in the industry.

Work You’ll Do

At Illinois Tool Works, you will be part of a professional community that thrives on creativity and innovation. Our employees are equipped with the skills needed to succeed and are provided with endless opportunities for professional growth. Engage in work that matters, with projects that transform industries and enhance futures.

Explore Career Paths

Whether you're seeking an internship, a graduate opportunity, or a seasoned professional position, ITW offers a range of career paths across various departments. Our team benefits from a supportive and diverse working environment where every member’s contribution is valued.

Innovate and Lead

Join a team where innovation leads to revolutionary solutions in industries worldwide. At ITW, you will work alongside industry experts to develop new ideas and strategies that keep us at the forefront of technological advancements. Your career at ITW will be marked by a continuous journey of growth and leadership.

Develop Your Skills

With ITW’s commitment to professional development and diversity training, you will enhance your skills through targeted training programs and workshops. These opportunities not only boost your career but also ensure you stay competitive in the job market.

Be Part of Our Culture

ITW is dedicated to building a culture that respects and embraces diversity, encourages innovation, and fosters leadership. Our team is our greatest asset, and we believe in providing them with the benefits and resources they need to succeed both professionally and personally.

Networking and Professional Growth

Expand your professional network through ITW’s global presence and collaborative work environment. Engage with professionals across different sectors, gaining insights that can lead to significant career advancements. Our networking events and professional groups help you connect with key industry leaders and peers.

Join Our Team

Search for open positions that match your skills and interests on the ITW Careers page. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to take their career to the next level.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest industry trends, company news, and career tips by following our careers blog. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails, tailored to your preferences and career goals. Explore the opportunities at Illinois Tool Works today and discover how your expertise can help shape the future of our company and the industries we serve. Join us in our mission to achieve excellence through innovation and leadership.
Learn more about Illinois Tool Works
Size
45,000 employees
Market Cap
$68.1 billion
Industry
Manufacturing & Automotive
Net Income
$2.1 billion
Founded
1912
5 Year Trend
+1.2%
Revenue
$12.5 billion
NASDAQ
ITW
* Ladders Estimates

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