Technical Product Specialist

Socket.dev; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

XPEL in Texas seeks a Technical Product Specialist to lead expert guidance on Paint Protection Film, window and architectural films, and related coatings. You will support product managers across the full lifecycle, run testing protocols, and benchmark competitors to shape roadmaps.

The role involves field visits to dealers, VOC collection, and technical training development, translating complex concepts into clear procedures and ensuring installation standards are globally adopted.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10+ years of experience in PPF, window film, architectural film or related installation-based industries.
• Demonstrated experience with multiple major film brands and installation methodologies.
• Advanced installation skills across complex vehicle applications and pattern workflows.
• Ability to develop testing protocols and communicate complex technical concepts.

Responsibilities

• Serve as product SME for PPF, window film, architectural films, and related products.
• Support product managers through concept, launch, and optimization phases.
• Evaluate product performance via testing and field validation.
• Identify improvements, manufacturing opportunities, and installation enhancements.
• Conduct dealer visits, installer ride-alongs, and gather VOC feedback.
• Diagnose installation challenges and provide improvement recommendations.
• Assist in prototype evaluation, testing, and product development.
• Develop testing protocols and benchmark competitors.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and Product Management.
• Create technical training content and conduct installer workshops.
• Translate complex tech concepts into repeatable procedures and standards.
• Establish and maintain global technical installation standards.

Skills

PPF experience

Automotive window film

Architectural film

Surface protection products

Installation methodologies

Design/pattern software

Teaching and training

Tools

Pattern software (DAP)

Job description

Job Summary:

We are seeking a passionate and professional Technical Product Specialist. The right person should thrive in a fast-paced environment. Be a proactive problem-solver, passionate with building and maintaining a team environment, and strives to be an integral part of the overall success of the Company.

Core Duties:

Technical Product Expertise

• Serve as a product subject matter expert for Paint Protection Film, Window Film, Architectural Films, Surface Protection Products, Coatings, and Aftercare products.

• Support Product Managers throughout the full product lifecycle, including concept development, validation, launch, and product optimization.
• Evaluate product performance and installation characteristics through structured testing and field validation.
• Identify product improvements, manufacturing opportunities, installation enhancements, and competitive gaps.

Field Engagement & Dealer Support

• Conduct dealer visits, installer ride-a-longs, and technical evaluations.
• Gather Voice of Customer (VOC) feedback from dealers, distributors, trainers, and installers.
• Diagnose installation challenges and provide recommendations to improve outcomes.
• Support strategic account visits and key product demonstrations.

Product Development & Validation

• Assist in prototype evaluation and product testing.

• Develop testing protocols for new products and product improvements.
• Benchmark competitive products and installation methodologies.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and Product Management teams to validate product changes.

Training & Knowledge Transfer

• Support the development of technical training content, installation standards, and best practices.

• Conduct technical workshops and installer training programs.
• Translate complex technical concepts into clear, repeatable procedures.
• Establish and maintain technical installation standards globally.

Competitive & Market Intelligence

• Monitor industry trends, competitive product developments, and emerging technologies.

• Perform competitive product evaluations and market benchmarking.
• Provide recommendations for future product roadmaps and innovation initiatives.

Basic Qualifications

Required Experience

• Minimum 10+ years of experience in:

• Paint Protection Film (PPF)
• Automotive Window Film
• Architectural Film
• Surface Protection Products
• Related installation-based industries

• Demonstrated experience working with multiple major film brands and installation methodologies.

Technical Competencies

• Advanced installation expertise across complex vehicle applications, including:

• Multi-piece bumpers
• Mirrors
• Headlights
• Roof applications
• Deep recess installations
• Bulk installation techniques
• Plotter-generated pattern workflows

• Strong understanding of:

• Adhesive systems
• Surface preparation
• Stretch behavior
• Film construction
• Post-heating requirements
• Product durability characteristics

• Advanced proficiency with design and pattern software platforms, including DAP and related technical tools.

Communication Skills

• Ability to teach, coach, and mentor installers at varying skill levels.
• Strong presentation and training capabilities.
• Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Former shop owner, lead installer, technical trainer, or product specialist.
• Experience supporting global markets and dealer networks.
• Experience working directly with product development, manufacturing, or quality teams.
• Multi-language capabilities are a plus.
• Improve adoption and installation consistency across key product categories.

XPEL is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.