About this role
Job title: Manager Product Development Engineer
About the Role The Product Development Engineering Manager role combines business acumen with end-to-end ownership of product development. It offers high visibility and frequent interaction with senior management as you guide a growing team and drive innovative, manufacturable toy products.
What You'll Do
- Manage and train a team of five to six engineers, providing day-to-day guidance, performance feedback, onboarding, training, and coaching; mentor the group and promote digital tools and best practices.
- Help establish Mattel's Engineering Footprint in India by driving a positive culture, improving engagement, and creating internship partnerships with local universities.
- Ensure scheduled deadlines by coordinating with India-based manufacturing vendors, attending on-site Asia meetings (CR, Debug, Value Engineering), and aligning with North America teams via evening sessions as needed.
- Optimize toy designs for manufacturing by reviewing upfront designs for manufacturability and working with tooling vendors/engineering teams to optimize for India production; modify existing items to enhance consumer experience and reduce costs.
- Drive product cost optimization by collaborating cross-functionally, exploring cost scenarios with Asia and North America counterparts, and participating in Kaizen events.
- Ensure ongoing product quality and safety by working with local manufacturers, monitoring vendor performance, and implementing corrective actions when needed.
What We're Looking For
- 10+ years of experience, including 5+ years in Product Engineering/Development, Toy Manufacturing or related consumer products field.
- Strong analytical, proactive, and critical thinking mindset.
- Ability to interact with diverse teams (Design, Marketing, Engineering, Manufacturing, Finance, Planning, etc.).
- Proficiency in Product Scheduling and Product Lifecycle Management software, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Deep knowledge of Plastics, Injection Molding and related manufacturing processes (e.g., Solvent Bonding, Sonic Welding, Mechanical Fastening).
- Familiarity with DFMEA and Root Cause Analysis workflows.
- Ability to direct team members to ensure program schedules and priorities are met.
- Strong interpersonal, organizational, and multi-tasking skills; comfortable presenting to executives and giving constructive feedback.
- Willingness to travel overseas and regionally.