Job Title: Innovation Engineer IIDepartment: Innovation UnitShift: Core business hours are Monday-Friday, 8am-5pmDirect Report: Innovation Unit ManagerType: Exempt; Full-time

About the position

We are looking for a reliable Innovation Engineer to explore emerging technologies, develop prototypes, and implement innovative solutions that address business challenges and create new opportunities. To use (TPM) Total Productive Maintenance methodologies to drive transformative ideas, processes, and technologies from concept to implement. To push boundaries and deliver measurable value in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. 

Responsibilities are:

• Work with a "Safety Always" mindset through supporting and promoting continuous improvement of safety and health in the workplace
• Perform all duties with a "Quality First" mindset through improvement of work processes and procedures to eliminate and prevent defects 
• Maintain a "big picture" focus and understanding of the complete tire manufacturing process 

Research and Development 

• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies, trends, and methodologies that align with the company's innovation strategy 
• Conduct feasibility studies, proof-of-concept projects, and technology demonstrations to assess potential solutions 
• Explore disruptive technologies such as AI/ML, IoT, blockchain, robotics, and advanced manufacturing techniques

Innovation Projects 

• Lead and execute innovation initiatives from ideation to implementation  
• Collaborate with cross functional teams to design/develop prototypes, pilot programs, and scalable solutions
• Develop and present business cases for innovative ideas include ROI analysis & risk assessments 

Process Optimization

• Analyze existing processes. Identify opportunities for improvement through technology and innovation 
• Recommend and implement automation, efficiency tools, and other solutions to enhance productivity and reduce costs 

Collaboration and Communication 

• Partner with internal and external stakeholders, including R&D, engineering, operations, and external vendors, to drive innovation projects 
• Communicate technical concepts and project updates clearly to technical and non-technical audiences 
• Foster a culture of innovation by inspiring and engaging employees to contribute ideas and participate in innovation programs 

Data-Driven Decision Making 

• Collect, analyze, and interpret data to measure the impact of innovation initiatives
• Leverage data insights to optimize designs, processes, and strategies 

Continuous Learning

• Stay informed about the latest advancement in technology, industry trends, and best practices
• Attend conferences, workshops, and training to build expertise and bring fresh ideas to the team
• Perform other duties as assigned 

Requirements are:

Education: 

• (Required) bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science
• (Preferred) certifications in innovation management, six sigma, or design thinking 

Experience: 

• (Required) 2+ years of experience in innovation, product development, R&D, maintenance engineering or a related engineering role
• (Preferred) experience working in a fast-paced, startup-like environment 

Language:  

• (Required) good command of written and spoken English 

Skills & Knowledge:

• Computers and Electronics- Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming
• Customer and Personal Service- Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction
• Mathematics- Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications
• Engineering and Technology- Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services
• Administration and Management- Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources
• Critical Thinking- Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems
• Systems Analysis- Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes
• Monitoring- Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to frequently move about the manufacturing plant campus, general office environments, production areas, and occasionally ascend/descend stairs
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time
• Must be able to operate a computer and other office productivity machinery
• Must be able to position self to file documents including the top and bottom drawers of file cabinets
• Must be able to occasionally move office equipment and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds

Benefits:

• 401(k), 401(k) matching
• Health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays

Hankook Tire is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

DISCLAIMER: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.