R&D TEST COORDINATOR

Description

Job Title: R&D Test Coordinator

Department: R&D  

Reports To: R&D Test Manager 

FLSA Status: Salary Exempt 

Location: Murrieta, CA

SUMMARY

Under general supervision, the R&D Test Coordinator will, collect and analyze data and work with Headquarters in Austria to evaluate and find potential technical problems and solutions. Maintains all test motorcycles, support vehicles and workshop and supports all street test, off-road test and component development activities. Effectively communicates and explains product features to the sales and marketing team before and during the market introduction of a new product. Provides objective and fact-based feedback, research and reports regarding existing models, markets and competitors. The ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment on significant matters is a crucial aspect of this position. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Technically prepares motorcycles for R&D use and completes general maintenance and service work on motorcycles. 
• Participates in research, testing and development for chassis and suspension system optimization utilizing on-site tests and data acquisition. 
• Plans for each test to ensure that the product is ready and specifically prepared to KTM/Husqvarna’s standards and the requirements of the R&D Manager.
• Makes travel arrangements for test teams from Austria and the US.
• Schedules external and internal test riders for testing activities 
• Supports WP suspension technicians during testing activities.
• Conducts test rides, evaluates, and makes recommendations to improve the motorcycles performance based on deep technical expertise.
• Prepares detailed R&D motorcycle testing reports to evaluate performance, define improvement areas, issues and solutions. 
• Completes and documents all necessary motorcycle maintenance, service and repair work including engine and suspension modifications
• Maintains workshop in appropriate manner, maintains spare parts inventory and consumable stock for street and off-road test teams.
• Ability to learn and operate KTM technical diagnostic. 
• Calibrates and maintains all necessary test equipment in the proper manner.
• Completes new product technical training required to meet technical service and product needs. 
• Preforms engine services as needed by street and off-road test teams
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Generally requires a minimum of five to ten (5-10) years of experience in the motorcycle industry. Experience with KTM and/or Husqvarna motorcycles strongly preferred. Extensive motorcycle testing and product knowledge is required. Riding experience strongly preferred. Required proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Other required experience includes: 

• Proficient in KTM diagnostic software.  
• Skilled in communicating and reporting test results. 
• Experience with task management and test planning.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: High School Diploma required; technical, vocational, or bachelor’s degree in relevant field preferred.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to ride a motorcycle (off road and street) with proficiency and follow company riding policies.
• Advanced understanding of engine and motorcycle technologies
• Understanding of motorcycle trends, segments, customer profiles, competitor product features and competitor business models
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
• Must be self-motivated with ability to use own initiative.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None

CONTACTS:

Internal: KTM Group HQ in Austria, R&D teams (KTM, Husqvarna, WP) Marketing Department.

External: Test Riders, Vendors, Customers 

JUDGEMENT/REASONING ABILITY: Ability to recognize discrepancies and resolve problems quickly using sound judgment, poise, and diplomacy. Requires ability to use judgment and reasoning skills and determine when issues need to be escalated.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers, bend, stoop and reach with hands and arms. 

Ability to lift-up to 100 pounds less than 10% daily

Able to sit at a desk and use/view computer 15% daily

Able to hear and speak into a telephone 5% daily

Able to stand, bend, stoop, twist 50% daily

Able to Drive or fly long distances 20% daily

Able to ride a motorcycle 5% daily 

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The noise in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. Other factors are:

• Ability to travel if needed. Travel is moderate in this position, approximately 20% domestic and/or international
• Hectic, fast-paced with multi-level distractions
• Professional, yet casual office work environment

Required Pre-Hire Screenings:

• Criminal - Felony and Misdemeanor 7 Years
• National Criminal Data Base 7 Years
• Social Security Verification
• National Sex Offender
• NDOT or DOT Drug Screen per job requirement