Director of Innovation, Mechatronics

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you. Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations. Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all? Position Summary The Director of Innovation lead a multidisciplinary engineering development team in delivering innovative, next‑generation mechatronic products. This role requires a strategic yet hands‑on technical leader with a proven history of innovation, system integration, and successful new product development. The Director is expected to work closely with the engineering team at every stage—from ideation and design through prototyping, validation, and launch. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing engineering team, including Mechanical, Electronics & PCB Design, and Embedded Firmware specialists. Engage directly throughout the full product development lifecycle, including: Concept and ideation Detailed design and system architecture Prototyping and iterative development Validation, DV/PV testing, and refinement Launch readiness and production support Drive innovation and technology strategy, exploring new concepts and emerging technologies in mechatronics. Guide architectural decisions, ensuring strong integration between mechanical, electrical, and embedded systems. Oversee development of BLDC motor systems, gearboxes/geartrains, electromechanical actuators, and related components. Support and lead design of electronic water pumps and other mechatronic subsystems. Drive and manage the intellectual property portfolio, including identifying patentable ideas, coordinating invention disclosures, and aligning IP strategy with product direction. Collaborate cross‑functionally with Product Management, Manufacturing, Operations, and Quality to ensure seamless product delivery. Establish and improve engineering processes, including requirements management, DFMEA, design reviews, verification/validation planning, and documentation. Lead the development, validation, and continuous optimization of product and manufacturing cost models, enabling data‑driven decision‑making for investments, sourcing, and product roadmaps. Integrate Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles into early-stage product architecture to ensure scalable, efficient, and cost‑effective production. Manage budgets, resources, schedules, and engineering priorities, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Represent engineering in executive leadership forums, customer engagements, and external technology partnerships. Requirements and Preferred Skills Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline. 15+ years of engineering experience, with deep exposure to mechatronics, electromechanical systems, or similar technical domains. 10+ years in relevant technical leadership or engineering management roles. Strong working knowledge of: Electronics and PCB design Embedded firmware/software development Mechanical design and system integration Demonstrated ability to work hands‑on with engineering teams through concept, design, prototyping, testing, and launch. Excellent communication, leadership, and decision‑making abilities. Preferred Qualifications Master’s in Mechanical Engineering or PhD in Physics (or related field). Experience with: BLDC motor design and control Gearbox/geartrain design Electronic water pump development Electromechanical system architecture High‑volume or high‑reliability product development Track record of patent generation or IP portfolio management. Familiarity with Agile development, model‑based design, or digital engineering tools. Personal Attributes Hands‑on, collaborative leadership style. Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities. Visionary mindset with the ability to inspire technical innovation. Passion for delivering differentiated, high‑impact products. PAY & BENEFITS Full-Time Salary: $171,000 - $200,000 Bonus Eligible: 20% Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire Eligible for Flexible Time Off 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match Tuition Reimbursement WHY GATES? Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow. WORK ENVIRONMENT Gates is an Equal Opportunity and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls; and use office equipment including computers, telephones, and/or copiers/scanners. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in Colorado, Gates is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. This compensation range is specific to the State of Colorado and takes into account various factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role. #LI-CB1

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