Manager, Research and Development

Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases is a leading provider of cryogenic pumps, heat exchangers, process systems, turboexpanders, services, and solutions for the liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied hydrogen (LH2), and industrial gases industries. Applications include fueling stations, marine engines, peak shaving, power generation, virtual pipelines, carbon capture, geothermal power and well stimulation. We are a subsidiary of Nikkiso Company Ltd, a leading industrial manufacturer headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, with $1.5 B USD in annual revenue, 8000 + employees worldwide, and publicly traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

The Manager, R&D will lead and oversee engineering projects aimed at creating and refining cryogenic heat exchangers technologies globally. This role involves managing product development, product managers, engineering teams, driving technological innovation, and ensuring successful project execution. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in engineering within the cryogenic heat exchanger and systems, strong leadership skills, and a track record of bringing innovative technologies to market.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Manage and mentor a team of engineers specializing in cryogenic heat exchanger technologies.
• Set performance goals, conduct regular reviews of performance KPIs, and provide guidance to enhance team capabilities and project outcomes.

Project Management – Resource and budget:

• Oversee the development, check the engineering design and define the testing of systems and technologies.
• Develop detailed project plans, including timelines, resource allocation, and budgets. Ensure projects are completed on schedule and within budget through efficient use of resources and cost-effective execution.
• Develop milestone schedules using a phase-gate methodology for “Go/No Go” decisions throughout the life of the project.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for funding and partnerships to support R&D initiatives.

Innovation & Technology Development:

• Drive the development of new engineering solutions and enhancements for cryogenic pump applications.
• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies to foster innovation.

Technical Oversight:

• Provide technical leadership and direction for engineering projects, ensuring adherence to best practices, industry standards, regulatory requirements and relevant internal (alo ISO) procedures.
• Evaluate and resolve complex engineering challenges, ensuring high-quality and effective solutions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with other departments, such as product management, manufacturing and business development, to integrate R&D outputs into commercial products. In a global context, the aforementioned departments can be remote and from other product companies within the Pumps Functional unit. This encompasses cooperation with remote engineering and purchasing resources.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration between engineering teams and external partners or stakeholders.

Documentation & Reporting:

• Prepare and present technical reports, project updates, dashboards and research findings to senior management and other stakeholders.
• Ensure comprehensive documentation of engineering processes, designs, and outcomes. Facilitate handover to production teams, assuring understanding of the design and manufacturing principles as well as the quality requirements. 

Work Environment

The employee must be able to sit, stand, or work at the computer for prolonged periods. The position supports operations in the manufacturing facility, which requires being on the shop floor for extended periods of time. Safety equipment must be utilized as specified to enter production areas. May be subject to hot and cold environments, loud noise, and typical manufacturing exposures. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, use hands, and reach with hands and arms. This role will require global travel to Nikkiso facilities as well as visits to customers as needed, but the conditions listed above will generally apply. Candidates will be required to show a driving abstract with a clean driving history for travel between the Nikkiso facilities and client sites/offices as required. A valid driver’s license is necessary.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus. The employee must be able to sit, stand, or work at the computer for prolonged periods. PPE must be utilized as specified to enter production areas

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or a related field). Master’s degree or higher preferred.
• Minimum of five years of experience in engineering within the cryogenic pumps sector, including two years in a management or leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in leading engineering projects from concept through to commercialization.
•  Fluent in English, for both verbal and written communication
• Strong technical expertise in cryogenics, process or machinery preferred,.
• Proven leadership and team management abilities.
• Proficiency in engineering design (SolidWorks Preferred) and project management tools and methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to manage complex engineering challenges.
• Experience with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and compliance.
• Familiarity with data analysis and engineering modeling techniques.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced and innovative environment.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Annual Salary Range:

$130,576.38 - $170,031.56

Nikkiso CE&IG is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.