Technology Research Engineer (Internal Applicants Only)

Position Summary: This individual leads the exploration of new technologies and manufacturing strategies and their potential application for the Company’s existing and future products.  Responsibilities include identifying, evaluating, and supporting the integration of sustaining and disruptive innovations into the organization’s various product lines.  This individual also participates in the creation of conceptual designs, device specifications, and product justifications. This person should have a strong background in the application of electronic circuits, firmware, communication protocols and troubleshooting electrical circuits.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Investigates new technologies, manufacturing processes, and materials that would improve the Company’s ability to provide new and existing solutions to clients.
• Assists the engineering team in evaluating and selecting the technology solutions to meet the functional specifications of new products.
• Assists Business Development staff and the Product Development team in analyzing product viability and new market opportunities.
• Demonstrates to, and gets buy-in from, relevant staff the value of the proposed technology and manufacturing processes.
• Assists manufacturing in the use of new technologies to increase quality and efficiency and decrease costs.
• Works with development personnel and outside contractors to prototype new products and feature concepts.
• Establishes and maintains professional relationships in the assistive technology field, engineering community, and with domestic and international manufacturers for potential consultation and collaboration.
• Reviews new and existing product designs and make suggestions for design, materials and process improvements.
• Attends domestic and international technology conferences and trade shows.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Creative and able to think outside of the box.
• Strong and sound analytical skills.
• Ability to explain new concepts to individuals at all levels of the organization.
• Ability to establish trusted relationships with outside contacts and suppliers.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Self-starter with the ability to work well under minimal supervision.
• Team player with ability to work well with all levels inside and outside the organization.
• Enthusiastic about engineering in the field the Company serves.
• Flexible and able to continuously adapt to a fast paced, rapidly changing environment.

Education and Experience:

• Engineering degree or related fields plus 5 years of engineering experience, including progressively responsible experience in product design or an equivalent education and experience is required.
• 5 years’ experience in innovative product development or sourcing is required. Experience with product design and production of assistive technology products for people with disabilities is preferred.
• 5 years of experience in AAC or related field is preferred.