We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking R&D Lead to lead the product innovation, technical development, and engineering excellence. Based in Pune, India, this role collaborates closely with global teams and plays a critical part in driving strategies, shaping product direction, and strengthening competitive advantages through advanced design, materials, and manufacturing innovations.
Key Responsibilities :
- Provide direction on product design concepts, technical architecture, and innovation strategies
- Promote modular design approaches and drive standardization of carry-over parts across product lines
- Evaluate and optimize feasibility of product design, stamping and forming processes, and integration of metal and plastic components
- Introduce and evaluate new materials, technologies, and manufacturing processes to enhance innovation and product competitiveness
- Review product design proposals and guide designers in identifying priorities, risks, and improvement opportunities
- Support customer-facing activities by providing strategic technical input in solution development and presentations
- Oversee the planning and review of prototype drawings, validation tests, and trial builds, ensuring alignment with technical direction
- Mentor engineers and technical staff to enhance their problem-solving skills and design judgment
- Define and execute mid-to-long-term technical development plans aligned with corporate goals
- Develop and manage the company’s intellectual property strategy, including patents and trade secrets related to core technologies
Qualifications :
Master’s degree or above in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, Materials Science, or a related fieldAt least 10 years of experience in automotive product development, including 5+ years in a senior technical leadership roleStrong understanding of the complete product development cycle—from concept design to mass production—with hands-on experience or oversight in relevant stagesFamiliar with CAD software (e.g., CATIA, AutoCAD) and capable of reviewing 2D / 3D models for design optimization and feasibility assessmentProven experience guiding or reviewing product validation plans, with working knowledge of DFMEA and the ability to interpret test data for design improvementDeep familiarity with IATF 16949 product development frameworks and quality management systemsIn-depth knowledge of tooling, stamping, plastic injection, metal fasteners, and mechanical integrationStrong leadership, decision-making, cross-functional collaboration, and crisis management capabilities, with the ability to influence across technical and business teamsExcellent verbal and written communication, presentation, and negotiation skills in both Mandarin and EnglishIn-depth understanding of automotive development processes, technical standards, and OEM / Tier-1 systems