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 field
At least 10 years of experience in automotive product development, including 5+ years in a senior technical leadership role
Strong understanding of the complete product development cycle—from concept design to mass production—with hands-on experience or oversight in relevant stages
Familiar with CAD software (e.g., CATIA, AutoCAD) and capable of reviewing 2D / 3D models for design optimization and feasibility assessment
Proven experience guiding or reviewing product validation plans, with working knowledge of DFMEA and the ability to interpret test data for design improvement
Deep familiarity with IATF 16949 product development frameworks and quality management systems
In-depth knowledge of tooling, stamping, plastic injection, metal fasteners, and mechanical integration
Strong leadership, decision-making, cross-functional collaboration, and crisis management capabilities, with the ability to influence across technical and business teams
Excellent verbal and written communication, presentation, and negotiation skills in both Mandarin and English
In-depth understanding of automotive development processes, technical standards, and OEM / Tier-1 systems
Manager Research • Shimoga, Karnataka, India