Senior Mechanical Engineer, Innovation

Your Job

The Brooks Innovation group is a team of experts who develop and deliver high-performance running shoes through cutting-edge design, material science, and manufacturing.

They work across all aspects of footwear creation to bring the best running experience to Brooks runners. As our Senior Mechanical Engineer, Innovation, you will be a key technical leader in the Footwear Innovation Team to drive the execution of complex research, prototype, and design projects for advanced manufacturing and work towards a virtual validation process that will drive the future of Brooks Running.

Partnering with research teams, you'll define new methods for rapid material and design innovations. This future includes building out a system for virtual modeling and validation (FEA / PCA) with external partners.

You will collaborate cross-functionally with product creation teams to develop performance-driven innovations that exceed expectations.

This includes managing projects to deliver cutting-edge technologies on time, working with internal and external partners to bring data-driven ideas to life and shape the future of running.

Your Responsibilities :

• Lead the creation and implementation of new virtual material identification methodologies that will deliver state-of-the-art technologies and processes complete with best practices and technology transfer documentation to facilitate seamless transitions into the in-line process.
• Employ simulation and modeling solutions to enhance our product designs, technologies, processes, and materials.
• Contribute to the product creative process so that material modeling becomes a validation point within the innovation development process and new ideas can be challenged and formulated through scientific reasoning.
• Lead partnerships with FEA companies and develop simulation modeling requirements with these partners
• Apply FEA principles and systems to model material properties and their influence on runner perception.
• Characterize materials for more accurate compound and material development
• Predict performance, durability, and experience based on material geometry and biomechanical models
• Lead mold flow design optimization
• Display an in-depth knowledge of the 2D / 3D CAD tools and processes with the ability to explain and manipulate the process to advance and enhance the overall performance and efficiency of the product.
• Identify opportunities to streamline or improve current operations and create, implement, and communicate new processes and techniques to the cross-functional teams
• Recommend and specify software, hardware, and testing methods to help validate the designed computational solutions.
• Contribute to the product creative process so that material modeling becomes a validation point within the innovation development process and new ideas can be challenged and formulated through scientific reasoning.
• Execute the innovation mechanical engineering role by delivering on Brooks’ Fit, Feel, Ride, and Crafted Beauty principles on multiple, concurrent projects via an unwavering dedication to always deliver excellence.
• Provide leadership to Innovation, Research, and Inline teams to uncover new ways that innovative materials can be tested, validated, and applied in virtual design simulations to optimize geometry
• while also meeting project goals and performance, sustainability, cost, and quality objectives.
• Demonstrate and articulate the benefits of the new virtual material testing program with key stakeholders including the Innovation Lead Triad, Run Research Team, Inline Teams, and our global factor partners to gain buy-in on the adoption of new methodologies and processes.
• Identify and partner with vendors, factories, and the Sourcing team to discover and advance new materials and processes which enhance the overall performance of product.
• Identify, recommend, and specify to project team the materials that will ensure product performance integrity through product testing (physical and field testing) while also meeting project goals and performance, sustainability, cost, and quality objectives.
• Project Management
• Lead complex project delivery, ensuring on-time execution and cost targets through meticulous planning and execution.
• Foster clear communication across all project stakeholders (core team, SMEs, partners, leadership) by facilitating key meetings throughout development.
• Proactively manage decision-making, resource allocation, and potential delays to drive successful product innovation.
• Act as an expert resource for other Footwear Team members with an aptitude for coaching and mentoring.
• Continuous learning of Brooks Fit, Feel & Ride manufacturing best practices

Qualifications :

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or other applicable technical degree.
• 7+ successful years of relevant work experience in 3D CAD design and modeling, including application of FEA for product design;
• 5+ years in product development of high-performance footwear is a major plus
• Strong computer skills including experience with Rhino, Solid Works, Altair, and MS Office software.
• Technical expertise in 2D / 3D with an advanced knowledge of computational and simulation engineering software.
• Demonstrated ability to creatively apply engineering principles and theories to solve new technical problems.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing capabilities, anticipating issues, and problem-solving with timely resolution.
• Understanding of the validation process from modeling to lab, fit, wear, and biomechanical testing and specification concepts and processes.
• Proven ability to lead and influence in a collaborative, cross-functional group to meet strategic objectives.
• Demonstrated ability to develop relationships with individuals and teams that are made up of diverse disciplines and cultural backgrounds resulting in effective working relationships across the company
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with an advanced ability to communicate new ideas, concepts, and functional expertise within project teams and to external stakeholders.
• Keen attention to detail in planning, organization, and execution of tasks (self and through others).
• Curious and open-minded; always open to a challenge, inventive, creative. With the ability to challenge the status quo always looking at improving our products and processes while also displaying a willingness to dive into the details.
• Proven ability to lead and influence in collaborative, team-oriented, and complex global environments.
• Passionate participation in Brooks’ sports activities is a plus, overridden by the ability to understand and empathize with the runner in order to develop loyal, engaging relationships with our customers and the Brooks community.
• Embraces and lives the Brooks values!

Compensation : The pay range for this position, based out of the Brooks Seattle HQ, is $121,798 - $182,749 per year. Base pay offered will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Other : Brooks is proud to offer a robust benefits package to our employees and their families!Benefits- including medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance, disability insurance, HSA and employer contribution, FSA, family & fertility assistance, 401K Savings Plan and match, employee assistance program, and transportation assistance.

Paid Time Off- Brooks offers generous time off including three to five weeks of paid time off, eleven paid holidays, paid sick,T and parental leave.

Bonus-in addition to base pay, Brooks employees may also be offered an annual bonus based on company performance.Perks- including product discounts, employee recognition, fitness discounts, volunteer and donation benefits.

Location- You will spend 3 days per week in our Seattle offices, as we believe our organization flourishes when connections, collaboration, creativity, problem-solving, and celebrations happen in person.