R&D Manager

Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.; Lebanon (MO); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

G3 Boats, a division of Yamaha Marine, seeks an experienced R&D Manager to lead development of aluminum fishing boats and pontoon lines. You will guide a skilled engineering team and collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, Marketing, and Operations to deliver industry-leading products.

The role involves driving prototypes, budgets, timelines, and design documentation while ensuring safety, durability, and performance across production launches.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Marine Engineering, or related technical field.
• 7+ years of engineering experience in product development, manufacturing, or related disciplines.
• 3+ years of leadership or project management experience.
• Experience in 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.

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.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Mentoring

CAD software experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Marine/Manufacturing Engineering or related field

Tools

CAD software

Marine product testing

Job description

R&D Manager

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.