Latam R&D Manager

About the role

Eaton's Protection, Control, & Solutions Group (PCS) division is looking for a Latam R&D Manager, which can be based in any of its main Electrical Sector locations in Latin America and requires 50% travel. The manager leads the regional R&D and Engineering organization, driving product localization, cost reduction, manufacturing innovation, process standardization and capital investment projects across Latin America. Reporting to the LATAM Operations Director, the role supports operations in Mexico, Central America & Caribbean, Chile and Brazil.

Key responsibilities

• Lead regional R&D, cost reduction and product localization initiatives to grow manufacturing capabilities across LATAM.
• Direct the manufacturing engineering teams across Mexico, Central America & Caribbean, Chile and Brazil.
• Drive process standardization across all plants and lead productivity improvement programs.
• Manage regional capex projects from justification through implementation.
• Standardize items, materials and product families across the region and support the localization strategy.
• Partner with Supply Chain, Quality/OpEx and Plant Managers on design-for-manufacturability and new product/process introduction.
• Ensure engineering compliance with Eaton standards and applicable local regulations.
• Build organizational capability by developing and coaching engineering talent.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Industrial Engineering or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in engineering/R&D and 5 years of people leadership managing engineering teams.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional and geographically dispersed teams.
• Advanced English and Spanish proficiency.
• Preferred: Master's degree, MBA or related field; experience leading engineering organizations in a multi-country manufacturing environment; knowledge of product standardization and material master management; experience in industrial, electrical, manufacturing or engineered products industries.

Required skills

• Product design, R&D, DFM/DFMA and new product introduction.
• Manufacturing engineering, process standardization and productivity/lean methods.
• Capex project management and item/material and product family standardization.
• Strategic leadership, change management, project and program management, and talent development.