Testing Lab Manager

Newell Brands is a leading $8.5B consumer products company with a portfolio of iconic brands such as Graco®, Coleman®, Oster®, Rubbermaid® and Sharpie®, and 28,000 talented employees around the world. Our high-performance culture, unparalleled curiosity about the world around us, and talented people fuel our success. Our culture is enabled through our core values which guide all we do and how we win as One Newell. They are Integrity, Teamwork, Passion for Winning, Ownership & Leadership.
The Lab Manager, Testing will be responsible for leading a team of engineers / technicians, supporting qualification of new product development (NPD) / VAVE projects. Moderate travel will be required.
This position will:
• Offer testing support for the design and development of new products by executing qualification activities throughout the Product Development cycle.
• Collaborate with product engineers, project leaders, test engineers and Chemists across all locations.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Manage the day-to-day operations of the test lab, including scheduling, resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols and industry standards to ensure overall program success.
• Coordinate with project teams and other stakeholders to support testing requirements for projects. Ensure that testing activities are aligned with project timelines and objectives.
• Prepare and deliver technical reports, summaries, and presentations to internal teams and clients as needed.
• Maintain quality assurance processes by implementing six sigma principles within the test lab to ensure the reliability and accuracy of test results. Review test data and reports for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with quality standards.
• Recruit, train, and supervise lab technicians and engineers. Provide leadership, mentorship, and performance feedback to ensure a productive and cohesive team environment.
• Plan, coordinate and execute Gage R&R studies to evaluate the repeatability and reproducibility of measurement systems / test methods.
• Manage the lab budget, including resource allocation, procurement of supplies and equipment, and tracking of expenses. Optimize budget utilization to meet operational needs while maximizing cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure proper maintenance, calibration, and upkeep of testing equipment to maintain accuracy and reliability. Coordinate equipment repairs or upgrades as needed.
• Provide technical guidance and support to lab staff and project teams. Stay abreast of industry trends, advancements in testing technology, and regulatory requirements related to testing.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement, efficiency gains, and cost reduction within the lab. Implement best practices and initiatives to enhance the effectiveness and capabilities of the mechanical test lab.
• Prepare project status and communicates risks to upper management with proper level of detail and recovery plans to gain alignment from management.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and industry best practices within the lab. Ensure adherence to 5S principles in the lab to uphold cleanliness and safety standards.
• Investigate mitigation strategies to ensure the best outcome for the company.
• Lead collaboration efforts across the organization to leverage best practices, expertise, and shared resources.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Bachelor's degree in engineering required (master's degree preferred)
• Experience in consumer products industry experience preferred
• 8 years of experience in mechanical testing with product development knowledge
• 2 years' management experience preferred
• Demonstrates strong organizational skills, a proactive approach to achieving goals, and an unwavering commitment to personal accountability
• Proficiency in mechanical testing techniques, equipment operation, and data analysis is essential. Familiarity with testing standards and protocols relevant to the industry (e.g., ASTM, ISO) is highly desirable. Fundamental knowledge of applicable manufacturing processes
• Demonstrates strong leadership and management skills for effectively leading and motivating lab staff. This includes the ability to delegate tasks, provide guidance and support, and foster a positive work environment
• Demonstrates strong analytical and problem-solving skills for identifying and resolving technical challenges and optimizing testing processes
• Demonstrates excellent communication, interpersonal, writing, planning, and presentation skills
• Demonstrates the ability to pay close attention to details for ensuring accuracy and precision in testing procedures, data collection, and reporting
• Demonstrates experience in working with global suppliers / partners