Product Development Engineer

Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc is looking to hire a Product Development Engineer who is responsible for executing and promoting the business and marketing strategies for a product or product line(s). By following Nitto’s core “3-Gen” philosophy, which refers to the three principles of go to the “Actual Place,” experience the “Actual Thing,” and discover the “Actual Situation,” this role will be actively engaged in market research to identify Enthusiasts’ wants/needs and finding opportunities in emerging trends that will assist in determining new product & portfolio strategies. Subsequently, this position is responsible for the coordination and technical execution of the new product development process from idea/concept phase to sales launch. The Product Development Engineer possesses strong mechanical, technical, and analytical skills to present findings and propose new ideas/concepts that outlines the value proposition and opportunity to stay ahead of the competition. Additionally, this person will need to be influential, inspiring, and proficient in interfacing with interdepartmental personnel and various technical groups within the company.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following;

• Successful new product development is the key to business growth and success. As part of the Product Planning and Development team, the Product Development Engineer will perform the following duties as assigned to support the team’s objectives:
• Lead, participate in, or support the following product development activities:
  • Product testing and evaluation
  • Propose new product ideas and/or solutions to challenges faced by consumers/customers
  • Concept, planning, and execution stages of major new products or product enhancements
  • Concept validation
  • Risk assessment
  • Design reviews
  • Testing concept designs
  • Pre-production meetings
  • Marketing activities
• Regularly monitor and deeply analyze competitors’ product performance to understand their strategy, technologies, weaknesses, and strengths. Prepare written reports and present findings.
• Identify the needs and goals of a new product from function to aesthetics using data and intelligence collected from the market, dealers, and current/potential customers.
  • Interact with industry contacts, dealers, and customers to identify and understand product differentiation, application, and performance requirements.
  • Share information to design engineers based on market and customer feedback.
  • Solicit current and find new business contacts to monitor market trends and changes.
  • Utilize data to evaluate and understand current business and market conditions.
• Prepare written documentation and/or presentations on market research findings and project updates.
• Frequent communications and close working relationship with Japanese engineers during entire development process.
• Lead and/or work with cross functional tire development teams in USA and Japan to explain, inspire, and determine the feasibility of the new or post product proposal.
• Create training materials to include product description, concept background, features & benefits, technical specifications, testing results, and target vehicle applications.
  • Develop training program and perform internal and external presentations on new products.
  • Update technical related documents, procedures, and systems.
  • Provide technical customer service on new products.
• Collaborate with various departments to successfully complete product development tasks as described above or as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.
  

“Nitto Tire is fueled by enthusiasts and led by passion and innovation. Growing by paving the way into emerging markets, listening and delivering tires that meet the exacting standards of enthusiasts.”

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES POLICY

Toyo/Nitto provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Toyo Tire Holdings of Americas, Inc values the contribution each employee brings to our organization. The starting pay will vary based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to education and experience within the job and/or industry. The salary range listed is what we reasonably expect to compensate generally for candidates that meet the specified qualifications and requirements listed on the specific job description. We provide a competitive compensation package along with a robust benefits program to meet your needs.

The salary range for this position is $81,000 - $105,000

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
o Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology to include application of logic, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of goods and services.

• Strong analytical, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to adapt to changes quickly and efficiently.
• Strong presentation, oral, and written communication skills is a must.
• Proficient computer skills in Microsoft Office with strong knowledge of Excel and PowerPoint.
• Ability and willingness to travel up to 25% of the time (domestic and international) as necessary to perform assignments (including some weekends).
• Ability to follow Company policies and safety guidelines.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree from a four-year institution in Mechanical Engineering. Minimum of three (3) years of current engineering experience in product development required. Experience in the tire, automotive, or other related industry is highly preferred.