Position SummaryGates Corporation is seeking a Sr. Manager, Power Transmission Innovation, to drive the next generation of belt and drive system technologies. This role is responsible for defining and executing innovation strategies across materials, design, and system-level performance for power transmission products.
The ideal candidate will combine deep technical expertise with strategic vision to identify disruptive opportunities, translate customer needs into advanced solutions, and accelerate innovation from concept through commercialization.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesInnovation Strategy & Technology Leadership- Define and lead the power transmission innovation roadmap aligned to corporate strategy and growth priorities
- Identify emerging technologies, materials, and design approaches to drive differentiated product performance
- Lead technology scouting, partnerships, and collaboration with external partners (universities, startups, suppliers)
- Champion a culture of innovation across engineering teams and global product groups
Advanced Product Development- Drive development of next-generation belt drive systems, including synchronous, V-belt, and e-mobility solutions
- Lead high-impact R&D programs from ideation through validation and commercialization
- Integrate advanced modeling, simulation, and digital engineering approaches into product development
- Ensure solutions meet evolving customer performance demands (efficiency, durability, noise, sustainability)
Cross-Functional Leadership- Partner with Product Management, Sales, and Marketing to translate market needs into innovation priorities
- Work closely with Materials Science, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to ensure scalable solutions
- Support global engineering teams in adopting and executing innovative technologies
Customer & Market Engagement- Engage with key OEM and industrial customers to understand future application requirements
- Represent Gates as a technical thought leader in industry forums and customer engagements
- Translate insights into breakthrough product concepts and business cases
Execution & Impact- Build and manage innovation pipelines, KPIs, and portfolio performance
- Ensure timely delivery of innovation programs with clear ROI and business impact
- Mentor and develop technical talent across the organization
Requirements and Preferred SkillsRequired- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field (Master's or PhD preferred)
- 10+ years of experience in power transmission systems, mechanical design, or advanced product development
- Proven record of accomplishment of leading innovation and R&D programs from concept to launch
- Strong understanding of belt drives, pulleys, fluids power, or rotating equipment systems
- Experience with simulation tools (FEA, dynamics, thermal) and system-level design
- Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional and global environments
Preferred- Experience in automotive, industrial, or e-mobility applications
- Knowledge of advanced materials (elastomers, composites, engineered polymers)
- Familiarity with sustainability, and digital engineering trends
- Experience managing external partnerships or open innovation ecosystems
Key Competencies- Strategic thinker with strong technical depth
- Innovation mindset with ability to challenge the status quo
- Excellent communication and executive presence
- Ability to influence without authority across global teams
- Strong business acumen and customer focus
PAY & BENEFITS- Full-Time
- Salary: $165,000-$195,000
- Bonus Eligible: 15%
- Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire
- Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days. All vacation days are accrued
- 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match
- Tuition Reimbursement
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls; and use office equipment including computers, telephones, and/or copiers/scanners. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in Colorado, Gates is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. This compensation range is specific to the State of Colorado and takes into account various factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role.
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