R&D Manager

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA; Lebanon (MO); On-site; USD 110,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

G3 Boats, a Yamaha Boat Company, is seeking an experienced R&D Manager to lead aluminum fishing boats and pontoon product development from concept to production. You will guide the engineering team, collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, Marketing, and Operations, and ensure products meet performance, durability, and cost targets.

The role requires a mechanical/ marine engineering background, 7+ years in engineering with 3+ years in leadership, and proficiency with CAD and testing

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Marine Engineering, or related technical field.
• Minimum of 7 years in engineering product development or manufacturing.
• Minimum of 3 years in leadership or project management.
• Experience in marine/automotive/manufacturing industries preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead new product development programs from concept through production launch.
• Manage and mentor R&D personnel and foster team growth.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to ensure successful product launches.
• Identify emerging technologies, materials, and market trends.
• Oversee prototype development, testing, validation, and implementation activities.
• Develop project budgets, timelines, and resource plans.
• Maintain engineering drawings, specifications, BOMs, and design documentation.
• Lead root cause investigations and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations, safety standards, and Yamaha engineering practices.
• Drive continuous improvement related to quality, durability, functionality, and cost reduction.
• Present technical updates to senior leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Marine Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Product testing methods

Aluminum fabrication knowledge

Lean Six Sigma

Job description

Location: Lebanon, Missouri

Company: G3 Boats, a Yamaha Boat Company

Position Type: Full-Time | Exempt Salaried

Join an Industry Leader in Marine Innovation

G3 Boats, a division of Yamaha Marine, is seeking an experienced and driven R&D Manager to lead the development of our aluminum fishing boats and pontoon product lines. This position plays a critical role in bringing innovative products from concept to production while ensuring exceptional quality, performance, durability, and customer satisfaction.

As R&D Manager, you will lead product development initiatives, guide a talented engineering team, and collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, Marketing, and Operations to deliver industry-leading products.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead new product development programs from concept through production launch
• Manage and mentor R&D personnel while fostering professional growth and team performance
• Partner with cross-functional teams to ensure successful product launches
• Identify emerging technologies, materials, and market trends to support innovation
• Oversee prototype development, testing, validation, and implementation activities
• Develop project budgets, timelines, and resource plans
• Maintain engineering drawings, specifications, BOMs, and design documentation
• Lead root cause investigations and implement corrective actions
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations, safety standards, and Yamaha engineering practices
• Drive continuous improvement efforts related to quality, durability, functionality, and cost reduction
• Present technical recommendations and project updates to senior leadership

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Marine Engineering, or a related technical field
• Minimum of 7 years of engineering experience in product development, manufacturing, or related disciplines
• Minimum of 3 years of leadership or project management experience
• Experience in the marine, automotive, recreational vehicle, transportation, or manufacturing industries preferred
• Proficiency with CAD software and product testing methodologies
• Knowledge of aluminum fabrication, welding, assembly processes, and marine standards preferred
• Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma experience is a plus
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment

Why G3 Boats?

At G3 Boats, you'll have the opportunity to shape innovative products that connect customers with the outdoors while working for a company backed by the strength and reputation of Yamaha Marine. We offer a collaborative environment, challenging work, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on our products and our industry.

If you're passionate about engineering excellence, product innovation, and leading high-performing teams, we'd love to hear from you.