We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Lead Product Engineer to join our collaborative Hardgoods development team. The ideal candidate will excel as a leader and be a strong team player, thriving in a creative environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. In this pivotal role, you will lead the engineering of groundbreaking products, guiding them from initial concept through testing and production while expertly managing costs and adhering to production timelines. With a heavy focus on creativity and an innovation mindset, you will work closely with and inspire cross-functional teams, including design, product strategy, testing, and suppliers. You will drive initiatives that elevate the quality and functionality of our products but also enhance the overall customer experience. Your knowledge and experience will be pivotal in inspiring these teams to push the boundaries of REI’s product offerings. If you are passionate about product development and eager to drive impactful change in the outdoor industry, we’d love to hear from you! 

• Collaborate closely and lead cross-functional teams, including design, strategy, and suppliers, to develop and refine product concepts.
• Mentor team members to foster an environment of creativity, collaboration, and professional growth. Leading by example, setting the standard for the collective team.
• Demonstrating experience with R&D / innovation programs for product development.
• Interfaces with testing and analysis of prototypes to ensure functionality, quality, and performance.
• Manage multiple product developments from concept to production, overseeing timelines, costing, and deliverables while empowering team members to take ownership of their work. 
• Highly Proficient in 3D CAD, SolidWorks preferred to effectively bring innovative design ideas to life. 
• Simulation experience (FEA, CFD, etc.) is preferred but not required to enhance product validation processes. 
• Fuel and push the development and execution of REI’s Innovation, building principles and processes to bring them to life.
• Maintain clear and consistent communication with team members and stakeholders throughout all stages of development.
• Hands-on ability to create proof of concept prototypes in physical form, working with partners or solo on shop equipment.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving, a passion for innovation, and a willingness to push advancements
• Stay updated on market trends and competitor products to identify opportunities for innovation and improvement, championing forward-thinking solutions.
• Develops and articulates detailed product specifications (Tech Packages) and prototypes, ensuring they meet market needs and company standards.
• Build BOMs and oversee tracking of all components in an assembly, ensuring efficient processes and agile response to changes.   

Qualifications   

• Product Design/ Engineering experience in similar fields is required. Demonstrated experience in R&D/ Innovation product development teams.

• 15+ Years of engineering work experience with a proven track record.  

• Passionate about the outdoors and have firsthand experience using outdoor equipment  

• Knowledge of product testing, both lab and field testing. 

• Challenges the status quo, champions change and innovation while influencing others and culture for improvement. 

• Develops and articulates detailed product specifications (Tech Packages) and prototypes, ensuring they meet market needs and company standards.

• High Manufacturing knowledge and experience working with international suppliers  

• Able to manage products across multiple categories simultaneously  

• Hands-on Mechanical ability to work with prototypes and development units (Hand tools, Manual machines, shop equipment etc.  
  

At REI, we believe the outdoors is for all. We are committed to becoming a fully inclusive, anti-racist, multicultural organization. We know that there's strength in our diversity – that each employee brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives. Every day you are driving change, fostering a culture of respect, and knowing you're backed by benefits that support your whole life. To work towards this commitment and fulfill our brand promise of inspiring and enabling a life outside for everyone, we seek employees who demonstrate different ways of working, create a sense of belonging, and actively listen and learn.  

Pay Transparency

We are committed to practices that promote pay equity and transparency. As required by applicable Pay Transparency laws, REI provides a range of compensation for roles that may be hired in locations under these requirements. Factors that may be used to determine your actual salary may include a wide array of factors, including: your specific skills and experience, geographic location or other relevant factors.   

REI offers all regular employees a generous employee discount, access to health benefits, a retirement savings plan and accrued time off.  Click here for a detailed overview of benefits plans by employee profile.