NPD Engineer

Location: San Luis de la Paz

Opportunity

BASIC FUNCTION

New Product Integration - Development team to execute QPD strategies on new and current products that improve time to market, product cost, plant capability and product performance. Key responsibilities include execution of Quick Product Development (QPD), the Global Vitreous Industrialization Process (GIP), and new development technology. Lead NPI – Development continuous improvement in facility, talent, and development processes to be world class.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervise operations in the I0-I1 development phases of vitreous product industrialization

Execute standardized processes, documentation standards, and record storage protocol for Quick Product Development (QPD), Global Industrialization Process (GIP), and all development activities in collaboration with the NPD, NPI and production organizations

Lead department administration by supervising engineers and technicians in their daily activities to achieve target results.

Establish schedules and priorities by working with stakeholders in NPD, NPI, and plants. Allocate resources per schedule to complete tasks within the allocated timeframe.

Identify new equipment for production in collaboration with NPI – Production, plant associates, and Global Vitreous.

Utilize capital planning process and project management to identify and acquire necessary processes and equipment to successfully execute QPD strategies, GIP, and advanced development projects.

Enable NPI – Production to maximize the potential for success during the I2 industrialization phase. This includes production readiness of all tooling, procedures, process control, and equipment specifications.

Supervise the design and construction of vitreous prototypes.

Contribute with 3D scanning facility and technology to support its various applications in product development and industrialization.

Responsible for purchasing of development supplies.

Maintain safety performance levels and departmental housekeeping.

Collaborate with cross functional development teams, plant departments, and vendors

Work closely with NPD functions to design for manufacturing in product design, process, and tooling/equipment to enhance product yield, form, fit, function, productivity, and safety.

Work closely with NPI – Production to ensure a seamless transition to production, supporting implementation of corrective actions that deliver robust new products for long term production

Assist manufacturing and NPI – Production in troubleshooting new products in I2-I5 stages of new product industrialization and existing products via CPD/REA process

Ensure excellent lines of communication with the NPD, NPI and production organizations

Actively promote an environment that is positive, continuously improving, and nurtures product/process innovation

Maintain state of the art awareness with production and NPI engineering methods and processes.

Identify and institutionalize product design improvements that increase productivity, reduce standard costs, improve process capability, improve product performance, and improve ergonomics for production associates.

Identify and institutionalize improvements in QPD strategies that reduce time to market and eliminate new product learning curves. This includes a responsibility to leverage hand modeling and 3D digital technologies.

Travel to the satellite potteries to assist with the introduction of new products.

Maintain and develop world class talent

Maintain department staffing, including hiring, development, merit increases, and promotions.

Develop associates for improved level of performance in current role, a higher level of engagement, and for promotion capability in the future, complying with Mexican government requirements.

Skills/Requirements

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Minimum 2-4 years of experience in sanitary ware product development and a Bachelor’s degree in an Engineering field. Ability to professionally communicate in the English language.

Why Work at Kohler Co.?

Kohler Co.'s mission is to contribute to a higher level of gracious living for those who are touched by our products and services. We understand that it takes investment in our associates’ development to make that happen. So, we offer ongoing investment in each individual’s personal development and the opportunity to collaborate with others across functions and roles at Kohler.

In addition to the investment in your development, Kohler offers a benefits package including a competitive salary, health, vision, dental, 401(k) with company matching, and more!

About Us

Beyond the competitive benefits and compensation, Kohler proudly offers a rich history, steeped in creativity and a commitment to our associates and communities. We invite you to learn more about our culture and company at www.kohlercompany.com .

It is Kohler’s policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified personnel in all job classifications without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, disability or veteran status. If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact kohlerjobs@kohler.com . Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.