Associate Manager, Innovation Operations at YETI Coolers, LLC in Austin, Texas

Job Description:

At YETI, we believe that time spent outdoors matters more than ever and our gear can make that time extraordinary. When you work here, you'll have the opportunity to create exceptional, meaningful work and problem solve with innovative team members by your side. Together, you'll help our customers get the high-quality gear they need to make the most of their adventures. We are BUILT FOR THE WILD™.


The Associate Manager, Test Lab Operations at YETI will oversee testing within the Austin based, Innovation Center. Primary duties will include overseeing the effective and safe operation of Innovation Center staff conducting test operations within the facility. This role ensures the smooth operation and on time delivery: including management of priorities and productivity ensuring overall validation, testing and business objectives are met.


This individual will be responsible for implementing an effective daily management process, ensuring resources are dedicated in accordance with YETI's new product development timelines, and sustainment of existing product lines. The scope of coverage includes: an expansive test lab including all Product Test Lab Technicians and in-house test equipment. This individual also partners with Validation Engineering to ensure all test instructions are clearly communicated and executed accurately by the Product Test Technicians. Regularly communicate test issues, delays or priority with management and stake holders of different projects.


Duties/Responsibilities:

• Manage Product Test Technicians working in a player-coach style position.


• Oversees the daily workflow, assignments, and work schedules, ensuring the safe and efficient facility operation.


• Oversees the product development test equipment (calibrations, routine maintenance, troubleshooting and training in use).


• Evaluates systems; makes recommendations for updating facility equipment, processes and procedures to increase efficiency and throughput


• Communicates any delays, problems, or output changes to proper stakeholders


• Analyzes testing requirements and workload to prepare project, schedules, and timetables


• Monitors project timelines ensures testing deadlines are met


• Ensures product testing continues until product requirements and specifications are met.


• Initiate and promote safety mindset by working with Facility team to organize storage, remove safety hazards and support equipment installation.


• Evaluates and facilitates implementation of ongoing quality control testing procedures to be incorporated into the regular development process


• Tracks KPIs and team targets


• Conducts performance evaluations that are timely and constructive


• Performs other related duties as required

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Associate or bachelor's degree with at least 4 years of related experience required or equivalent combination of education and experience


• At least 1 year of supervisory and leadership experience in a test lab environment focused on testing hardware, polymers/materials, HALT/HASS, or product development. Consumer product test lab is a plus.


• Experience with development of complex workflow tracking tools (i.e. Smartsheets, Excel, PLM systems)


• Experience with Injection Molding, Rotational Molding, Metal Forming, or Textiles a plus


• Previous experience with machining processes (CNC, Lathe, power tools, welding etc.) a plus


• Experience in custom test equipment development, fixture development, and hands on machine maintenance or troubleshooting.


• Familiar with GD&T and Metrology principles a plus


• 3-D Printer experience a plus


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills


• Familiarity with 3D CAD software beneficial (Solidworks preferred)


• Detailed experience with testing principles and procedures including standardized testing (i.e. ASTM, AATCC, ISO, EN, MIL-Spec)


• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

YETI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.



Our commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture is at the center of everything we do for our YETIzens. We embrace all applicants looking to bring their authentic selves to YETI and contribute to our mission of keeping the wild WILD. Find out more about our commitment to DE&I at yeti.com/dei.html


All applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws.


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