Product Testing and Validation Manager- PRC

Product Testing and Validation Manager – PRC

As part of Rain Bird’s Technology and Innovation group, this role heads the Product Research Center (PRC), supporting engineering and production through hands‑on product testing. It requires a self‑driven individual with strong communication skills, a commitment to safety, and a focus on continuous improvement, offering broad exposure to Rain Bird products and increased organizational visibility.

Responsibilities

Hire, manage, and lead PRC staff to ensure safe and high‑quality testing practices.

Test products for quality, competitiveness, design validation of new or modified products.

Provide guidance on test equipment design and support offsite testing needs at remote Rain Bird facilities.

Manage PRC budget and monthly expense allocations.

Qualifications

B.S. degree in Engineering with typically 8+ years of experience.

Excellent communication, interpersonal, and influencing skills.

Experience managing or a strong desire to lead in a production operation, including temporary contract employees.

Ability to manage multiple projects including definition, planning, budgeting, schedule compression, and tracking.

Hands‑on problem solver with strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.

Theoretical and practical knowledge of design, materials and solid/fluid mechanics.

Experience with 3D solid modeling and / or industrial sensors.

Experience working in / leading at 5S environment ensuring organizational efficiency.

Demonstrated success establishing and maintaining a safe work environment.

Desired Qualifications

Advanced Degree in Engineering or Business Management.

Experience identifying and implementing automation to improve a Job Shop environment.

Knowledge of automated data collection and analysis.

Knowledge of injection‑molded plastic component design and plastic materials.

Knowledge of irrigation design, sprinklers, valves, and nozzle performance testing.

Knowledge of pump systems, sizing, and basic maintenance.

Skilled in recruiting, training, and maintaining a temporary staff.

Skilled working with external contractors and contracts to support facility maintenance.

Experience with Lean philosophies deployed in a production environment.

Budgeting and income statement experience.

Rain Bird Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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