Research and Development Manager

BEA Inc. is a leading provider of sensors, solutions, and accessories for activation, measurement, and safety in several market segments including pedestrian and industrial automatic doors, vehicle gates and barriers, and logistics automation. The company’s product portfolio utilizes several sensing technologies including microwave, active and passive infrared, and laser time of flight. The R&D Manager will oversee project planning, execution, and delivery ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.  He/she leads the engineering team for the Americas and works collaboratively with a global R&D team based in Liege Belgium, to drive the development of new products and platforms to maintain BEA’s leadership position in the markets it serves.  The R&D Manager supports the company’s purpose to build a convenient, safe, automated world and works to achieve the vision of market expansion through innovation and continuous improvement.

• Leadership & Team Development
  • Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of 4 engineers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
  • Conduct performance evaluations, provide constructive feedback, and create career development opportunities for team members.

• Project Management & Execution
  • Oversee project planning, resource allocation, and execution, ensuring timely delivery within budget.
  • Define project scope and requirements in collaboration with cross-functional teams, including Product Management, Operations, and Quality Assurance.
  • Communicate project status, risks, and milestones to stakeholders and executive leadership.

• Strategic Innovation & Technology Development
  • Identify and evaluate emerging technologies to support the company’s innovation strategy and long-term growth.
  • Establish and maintain engineering best practices, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Build relationships with technology partners and represent the company as a subject matter expert at industry conferences.

• Product Development & Customer Engagement
  • Lead the development of disruptive products integrating hardware and software, from early concept through testing, manufacturing, and market launch.
  • Work closely with marketing and sales teams, engaging with customers to understand market needs and provide technical insights.
  • Support the creation of digital solutions such as apps and software development kits that enhance product usability and evaluation.

• Collaboration & Global Integration
  • Participate in global R&D meetings and coordinate with teams in Asia and Europe to align strategies and share best practices.
• Communicate effectively with internal departments worldwide regarding project updates and new product introduction (NPI) progress.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Optical, Microwave, System, or Embedded Software).  Master’s degree is a plus.
• Experience leading Engineering teams in the development of electronic products.
• Strong understanding of engineering principles and methodologies.
• Understanding of sensor technologies and their applications, with proven experience leading successful product development initiatives.
• Proven experience in project management and delivering successful engineering projects.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Proficiency in [specific technologies/tools relevant to the role].
• Demonstrable track record of success managing multi-disciplinary product development teams through the full life cycle of product development.
• Creativity and enjoyment in working in an environment that is purpose and results driven.  Ability to work in a matrix environment with cross-functional and cross-cultural teams
• Possess a curious, courageous, creative and collaborative spirit
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, excellent presentation and communication skills
• Willingness to travel internationally as required.
• Demonstrated ability to organize and manage multiple priorities using effective problem solving/resolution skills and a team focus.