R&D Manager - Jobs in Saint-Hubert, Quebec

Job Description

Job DescriptionAt Techo-Bloc, innovation is in our DNA. We #39;re not just creating landscaping products—we #39;re redefining what #39;s possible in the industry. Our Researchamp; Development department is the driving force behind the tools, technologies, and materials that set us apart. Now, we #39;re looking for an R amp;D Manager to join this powerhouse team and shape the future of hardscape manufacturing.You’ll be leading our engineering initiatives, working hand-in-hand with our automation team, and collaborating with professionals across 9 state-of-the-art manufacturing plants in North America. From brainstorming ideas to overseeing installations, from lab tests to full production rollouts—you #39;ll be at the heart of every innovation.This is more than a management role—it #39;s a chance to transform ideas into impact and work with one of the industry’s boldest brands.What You’ll Be DoingYour role will be both strategic and hands-on. Depending on project timelines and seasonal priorities, this role can shift between being fully office-based—focused on strategy, planning, and development—and 100% on-site, actively guiding contractors and overseeing installations.While the position is structured as a full-time, Monday to Friday role, flexibility is key. The ideal candidate is willing to adapt to non-standard hours when needed, including evenings and weekends, especially during critical installations or urgent production issues.Leadershipamp; Operational Oversight

• Lead R amp;D engineering operations and oversee a team of specialists supporting all 9 manufacturing facilities across Canada and the U.S.
• Drive the maintenance, optimization, and modernization of existing equipment throughout all plants
• Build strong, collaborative relationships with maintenance, production, and plant managers to stay aligned with evolving project needs
• Develop and implement a strategic roadmap to prioritize and sequence projects effectively
• Guide your team in defining technical requirements, identifying challenges, and engineering smart solutions
• Oversee the planning, budgeting, and scheduling of projects, ensuring timelines and milestones are clearly established and met
• Manage multiple, high-impact R amp;D initiatives from concept to completion
• Partner with the automation department to design, develop, and integrate custom machinery and systems across sites
• Lead the execution of factory upgrades and equipment installations, ensuring seamless deployment
• Provide support during production disruptions, coordinating rapid response and technical troubleshooting
• Maintain a strong balance between strategic planning and hands-on execution, moving fluidly between office work and on-site leadership

Concrete Mix Designamp; Testing

• Develop new batching procedures and mix formulations
• Test innovative products using various fillers, admixtures, and pigments
• Lead lab and in-field testing of prototypes and product variants
• Experiment with coatings for both wet-cast and dry-cast processes
• Drive quality assurance across all mix design experimentation

Equipmentamp; Innovation Scaling

• Work with engineers to design in-house machinery and automated systems
• Build and test small-scale prototypes using custom test benches
• Source and assess OEM equipment for larger R amp;D initiatives
• Develop operational procedures and training materials for production teams
• Manage supplier relationships, procurement processes, and contractor oversight

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with operations, maintenance, and production teams to align on goals
• Build strong internal relationships to ensure smooth project execution
• Keep the Manufacturing Director and other leaders informed and aligned
• Act as a technical mentor and coach for the R amp;D and automation teams

Researchamp; Industry Exploration

• Stay ahead of trends in concrete technology, automation, and industrial design
• Explore global innovations—especially from leading European competitors
• Identify and engage new material suppliers to support product development
• Research and propose new product concepts to maintain market leadership