Manager Technical Engineering - Engine Lab

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The Manager Technical Engineering - Engine Lab is responsible for building, leading, and continuously improving an advanced Engine Development Laboratory capability in support of Generac’s engine strategy. This role provides technical and people leadership for all engine development, durability, certification, emissions, and performance testing activities supporting new product development, technology roadmap execution, validation, and lifecycle improvement. The position requires internal combustion engine (ICE) and/or alternative fuel engine development expertise combined with strong organizational leadership skills. This leader partners closely with Engine Design, Controls, Compliance, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Field Quality, and external suppliers to ensure safe, robust, and data-driven engine development execution.

This position will be located onsite at our headquarters in Waukesha, WI.

Major Responsibilities Establish and lead an Engine Development Laboratory organization aligned to Generac’s engine roadmap

Establish engineering best practices, standard work, and continuous improvement culture to ensure data quality and testing consistency

Develop lab strategy, capability roadmap, capital plans, and staffing plans

Oversee engine performance, durability, emissions, certification, and abuse testing activities

Ensure safe operation of all engine test cells, fuel systems, and emissions equipment

Partner with Engine Design and Controls teams to define development and validation plans

Manage budgets, capital investments, and external test partners

Drive laboratory throughput, data quality, and on-time delivery of engine development milestones Enforce 5S and workplace hygiene to always ensure safe operations

Recruit, develop, coach, and retain high-performing engineering, technician, and supervisory talent

Provide technical leadership and mentorship for engine development and test engineers

Establish engineering best practices, standard work, and continuous improvement culture

Interface with executive leadership on program status, risks, and technical tradeoffs

Lead cross-functional reviews including design validation, failure reviews, and readiness assessment

Work with Engineering department to ensure test lab capabilities are in-line with present and future test strategies

Minimum Job Requirements Associate’s degree in mechanical or electrical engineering or equivalent

10 years of progressive engine or powertrain engineering experience

4 years of people leadership and laboratory or organization development management

Deep technical understanding of internal combustion engine systems and development processes

Strong leadership presence with ability to influence across functions

Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills

Ability to manage multiple complex development programs simultaneously

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Job Requirements Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related discipline

15 years of engineering experience

Experience in engine development, validation, durability, and performance testing

Experience leading technical teams in regulated environments (EPA, CARB, EU or equivalent) Experience with gasoline, natural gas, propane, or alternative fuel engines

Experience with engine dynamometers, emissions benches, data acquisition and controls systems

Proven root cause analysis and failure investigation leadership

Familiarity with engine calibration, emissions development, and certification processes

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls. The employee is regularly required to stand and walk. On occasion, the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend, or reach above the shoulders. The employee must occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Occasional travel.

“We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.”