R & D Lab Manager

MissionHires is seeking an R&D Lab Manager on behalf of a client to lead a hands-on engineering test laboratory supporting product development for HVAC and electro-mechanical systems. This role owns day-to-day lab operations, team leadership, safety and compliance, and partnership with engineering and project leadership to deliver predictable, on-time testing. The manager will maintain a strong floor presence, troubleshoot complex test setups, drive continuous improvement in uptime and utilization, and evolve lab capabilities, tools, and workflows as demand scales at the Anoka, MN campus. Relocation available within the U.S.; sponsorship is not available.

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of engineering technicians and engineers in a hands-on R&D lab environment.
• Partner with engineering and project leadership to align testing priorities and support predictable, timely project delivery.
• Own daily lab operations: ensure safe work practices, schedule adherence, accuracy of testing, and clear communication.
• Improve equipment uptime, reduce downtime, and optimize overall lab utilization and throughput.
• Serve as the primary interface between the lab and the business to plan work, manage demand, and set realistic timelines.
• Maintain strong daily presence in the lab; provide technical guidance and real-time decision support.
• Diagnose and resolve complex test setups and issues related to HVAC/electro-mechanical systems.
• Ensure compliance with UL, ASHRAE, DOE, ISO and other applicable regulatory/industry standards.
• Drive continuous improvement in productivity, processes, and tools, including data acquisition, controls, automation, and test software.
• Contribute to scaling the lab organization: shape team structure, capabilities, workflows, and future-state lab strategy.
• Set clear expectations, identify risks early, and communicate status and needs to leaders and cross-functional partners.
• Support physical testing tasks as needed, including lifting/pushing up to 50 lbs. and extended periods of standing or sitting.

• Bachelor’s degree (BS) in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or closely related technical field (Mechanical or Electrical preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in an R&D lab or test environment supporting product development via hands-on testing, validation, and lab operations (HVAC or electro-mechanical preferred).
• 5 years of experience managing a lab in an R&D prototyping environment or in a supervisory leadership role.
• Demonstrated people management experience leading engineering and/or technical teams (R&D lab leadership preferred).
• Experience working within regulated testing frameworks (UL, ASHRAE, ISO, DOE).
• Background with data acquisition systems, controls, and test software; able to guide decisions on lab tools, methods, and capabilities.
• Strong business judgment to balance shifting demands and timelines and influence engineering teams at multiple levels.
• Excellent communication skills for clear expectation-setting, proactive risk identification, and effective cross-functional partnership.
• Ability to lift, push, and/or pull up to 50 lbs. without assistance; able to stand or sit for extended periods during testing.
• Experience in fluid dynamics and heat transfer.
• Must have a BS—no exceptions.
• Relocation assistance available for non-Minnesota candidates; no sponsorship available.

plus aggressive 15% bonus program