R&D Manager; Project Engineering and Testing

The Manager, R&D - PEaT will provide engineering support, research, documentation, integration and validation for the Kubota NAR1 department and its R&D initiatives. This position will oversee Project Engineers and be responsible for driving technology product development projects. The Manager, R&D will perform tasks of system wide functional tests, internal and customer validation tests, developing testing plans/requirements, design contribution, systems engineering, prototyping, component sourcing and integration, documentation, vendor, and research partner management.

This position does the following in accordance with all applicable Federal, State and local laws / regulations and the Company’s policies, procedures and guidelines:

• Gather and document test plans and test requirements and create integration proposals for system verification and validation strategies that align with NAR R&D project and business goals.
• Execute test plans in a systematic manner, in isolation or within a larger testing team, as required by the project.
• Lead project teams and organize the resources needed to plan and perform right‑sized testing regimes based on project scope, risk tolerance, and business exposure metrics.
• Maintain process control and discipline over engineering tests and QA functions to ensure smooth passage through product development stage gates.
• Lead a project team in the development of mechanical, electrical, and software systems related to machine automation, cloud connectivity, remote monitoring, sensor integration, and machine control.
• Apply systems engineering practices across integrated subsystems, including support for requirement generation, interface control, and the development of verification and validation test methods with requirements‑to‑test traceability.
• Support the integration and administration of engineering systems and digital tool chains, such as requirements management, test data acquisition, and product lifecycle management (PLM) tools, to improve requirement quality, traceability, and verification and validation reporting across projects.
• Develop and integrate basic software programs and scripts for prototyping and testing.
• Document testing outcomes and maintain the related technical project documentation using project‑approved documentation and tracking tools.
• Create demonstrations and presentations on project status and technical findings for all levels of the organization, including executive leadership.
• Manage and mentor Project Engineers, including work assignments, technical development, and performance management.
• Collaborate with vendors, suppliers, and research partners to assess and develop technology that accelerates development and delivers the appropriate level of quality.
• Support the development of integrated technology roadmaps for assigned technology areas, including verification and validation milestones, and assess and report execution risks with recommended mitigation plans.
• Develop and maintain a working knowledge of the standards and regulations used in our industry that are pertinent to assigned technology areas and apply them to requirement generation and test planning.
• Other duties as assigned by management.

• Bachelor's in mechanical engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related fields required. Master’s degree preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in engineering or related technical fields
• Prior management, team, or project leadership experience required.
• Experience in Agriculture or Construction industries preferred.
• Willingness to travel up to 25%

• Requires sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, to permit the employee to…