R&D Lab Manager

COMPANY DESCRIPTION :

JOB DESCRIPTION :

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Participate in the development and/or review of test plans and procedures.
  
• Manage the development and delivery of functional prototypes, and custom test jigs and fixtures.
  
• Manage the preparation, setup, and execution of tests according to established procedures and protocols.
  
• Act as test engineer on select strategic tests.
  
• Manage the reporting to provide accurate test results, and clear and concise conclusions and recommendations.
  
• Lead test programs that simulate real-world conditions to validate reliability, maintainability, and safety of commercial products.
  

• Participate in the development and/or review of product validation plans.
  
• Manage the preparation, product configuration, and execution of product validation plans according to established procedures and protocols.
  
• Lead product validation plans that simulate real-world conditions using commercial products.
  
• Manage the reporting to provide accurate validation results, and clear and concise conclusions and recommendations.
  

• Develop, implement and maintain:
  
• Lab new organization and layout;
  
• Preventive and corrective maintenance plan and schedule for the lab
  
• Calibration plan and schedule for test instruments.
  
• Testing process (protocols, procedure, flowchart, templates, database)
  
• Product validation process (protocols, procedure, flowchart, templates, database);
  
• Guidelines to purchase lab materials, equipment, tools, test instruments, and any required supplies.
  
• Monitor progress against key milestones and KPIs, ensuring accountability and transparency.
  
• Capture lessons learned from past tests and integrate them into process revisions.
  

• Enforce 5S principles.
  
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workspace.
  
• Ensure proper handling, labeling, and storage of hazardous materials .
  
• Ensure lab compliance with safety standards (CSA, UL, CE, NSF, ServSafe).
  
• Conduct regular audits and corrective actions to uphold lab standards.
  

• Support Sales, Service, or Production by overseeing the troubleshooting of R&D Technicians when complex issues arise.
  
• Support Sales, Service, or Production with training on new products, or products changes.
  

• Own the governance of all prototyping and testing activities: prioritize, schedule, and align resources.
  
• Supervise and coordinate a multidisciplinary team, assign tasks and ensure timely outputs.
  
• Lead recruitment, onboarding, and workforce planning.
  
• Assess skills, implement training, and provide coaching and feedback for growth and retention.
  
• Manage performance with clear objectives, reviews, and corrective actions when needed.
  
• Ensure a safe, compliant work environment under Québec law (LSST) and company policies.
  
• Drive change initiatives by engaging employees and embedding new processes and technologies.
  

Profil

QUALIFICATIONS :

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, or industrial Engineering.
  
• Professional Engineer designation (P.Eng – OIQ Asset).
  
• Additional certifications (preferred): Test Engineering or Reliability Engineering (e.g., ASQ CRE, ISTQB). PMP, Lean/Continuous Improvement, or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt.
  
• Minimum 10+ years of experience in test engineering, reliability engineering, or validation within a manufacturing or industrial equipment environment.
  
• At least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
  
• Deep knowledge of prototype, performance, endurance, reliability, and validation testing methods for complex electromechanical systems.
  
• Demonstrated expertise in compliance with CSA, UL, CE, NSF standards.
  
• Strong data analysis, root cause investigation, and statistical reporting skills (e.g., MTBF, DOE, FMEA).
  
• Experience implementing 5S, lean principles, and continuous improvement in test environments.
  
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 Suite and ERP systems
  
• Familiarity with CAD tools (SolidWorks/AutoCAD) sufficient to interpret engineering design intent.
  
• Bilingual in French and English.
  
• Valid Class 5 driver’s license.
  
• Ability to occasionally lift components, test fixtures, or products up to 25 lbs.
  

Informations contractuelles

WORK CONDITIONS :

• Salary depending on experience with targeted annual bonus of 15%
  
• Vacation: 3 weeks of vacation from the start plus 1 week at Christmas (starting in 2026), and 5 paid discretionary days.
  
• Group health and dental insurance.
  
• Retirement: RRSP matching program.
  
• Occasional travel.
  

ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS ROLE?