Director of Product Development and Engineering

Job Description

Position Description:  

The Director of Product Development and Engineering is responsible for the development of all new products for K&N’s Global Filtration business unit.  The Director of PD&E is responsible for the product portfolio: fit, form, function and performance of all finished goods.  The position necessitates a detailed working knowledge of the industrial HVAC industry, and ability to design and bring to market compelling products to solve all manner of air filtration needs. 

Position Requirements: 

The Director of Product Development and Engineering will work directly with the Chief Engineering Officer to develop priorities and targets for all new products for all three brands.

• Directly Responsible for all phases of development of K&N’s washable/reusable filter products.  Scope includes: media selection & development, filter design and construction, BOM cost management & DFM, filter performance KPIs, filter durability and quality management, long-life performance dynamics (including wash protocols, post-wash performance, etc).


• Develop key internal relationships with cross-functional leaders in Marketing, Sales, and Manufacturing for alignment of priorities and the provision of product visibility.


• Participate in and support every phase of the Global Filtration business from front-end to back-end:  marketing trade shows, prospect and sales calls, on-site client meetings, and manufacturing & supply chain.


• Must be able to speak persuasively with multiple levels of customer stakeholders: sustainability executives, facility directors, and technical lead HVAC engineers across global customer base.


• Manage 5-10 individuals.


• Direct responsibility for all testing lab activities


• Travel as needed to customer sites:  approx 1x month, up to 20%.  Varies by initiative and priority.

Experience, Skills and Education:

• 5+ years Engineering leadership


• Required Qualifications: BSME and MBA (or equivalent). 


• Must have operational understanding and working knowledge of HVAC components: air handler & cooling equipment types, HVAC system designs, and be able to speak with lead HVAC engineers across global customer base.


• Proficient in mechanical skills, and CAD software knowledge, as well as procedures for testing


• Must know proper tool design and machine shop practices.


• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including Excel, Powerpoint, and Word.


• Adaptable to a fluid business environment: effectively manage team and executives across a broad business scope and multiple initiatives.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.