Manager, Validation Engineering

At YETI, we believe that time spent outdoors matters more than ever and our gear can make that time extraordinary. When you work here, you'll have the opportunity to create exceptional, meaningful work and problem solve with innovative team members by your side. Together, you'll help our customers get the high-quality gear they need to make the most of their adventures. We are BUILT FOR THE WILDTM.
About the Role
As Manager of Validation Engineering based in Vietnam, you will report to the Sr. Manager of Product Development in Denver, CO. You will lead a technical team responsible for the creation, launch, and sustainment of YETI products.
This role leads a Vietnam-based team comprised of a dedicated Validation Engineer, Material Developer, and Material Color Developer supporting the Softgoods business across Soft Coolers and Bags. You will play a critical role in building and scaling these capabilities in Vietnam-translating and adapting established U.S.-based processes to enable local execution of finished goods testing, as well as material development and validation for the Softgoods category.
What You'll Do
Lead and set clear performance expectations for a high-performing, technical team including Validation Engineering, Material Development, and Material Color Development supporting new product development and in-line production.
Partner with global Validation Engineering teams to implement and scale established validation standards and processes within the Vietnam region, ensuring alignment across new and sustaining YETI products.
Build and operationalize Validation Engineering, material development, and color development capabilities in Vietnam by scaling and adapting U.S.-based processes for local execution.
Develop, communicate, and continuously improve standard operating procedures for the Vietnam office to enable consistent execution and team effectiveness.
Translate business plans into clear department objectives and work plans aligned to a multi-season new product development cadence; allocate resources based on business priorities.
Monitor and improve engineering performance by tracking key metrics, identifying technical risks, and driving program execution across assigned products and initiatives.
Prioritize, review, and guide team deliverables to ensure timely, high-quality execution of product validation, material development, and engineering support commitments.
Establish accountability through consistent team routines, defined deliverables, and clear follow-up mechanisms across all projects.
Coach and develop team members to achieve individual and team objectives, including goal setting, development planning, and performance management aligned with company standards.
Improve service delivery by evaluating internal stakeholder needs and refining workflows, data management practices, operating metrics, and capacity planning.
Manage operating and capital budgets, including capability build-out, capacity planning, and external resource recommendations to support Vietnam growth.
What You Bring
Bachelors in Engineering, Chemistry, Material Science, Physics or related field of science strongly preferred with equivalent work experiences. (Advanced degrees a plus but not required.)
At least 8 years of experience in engineering and product development with some experience in the Consumer Goods Industry is strongly preferred.
3+ years of experience leading and developing technical staff, to meet business goals and objectives.
Ability to effectively build relationships cross-functionally and across the entire business.
Experience and knowledge of testing and material standards and organizations.
Experience with DFMEA and Design Validation Plan (DVP) development.
Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal English communications skills.
Experience managing complex workflows in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Experience with various root cause analysis techniques, excellent agility, reliability engineering and problem-solving skills demonstrating the ability to work within the grey.
Experience working with international teams and/or suppliers including 3rd party test and prototype resources.
Experience and knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes, preferred.
Experience working in test lab environment, preferred
Benefits & Perks:
Click here to learn about the benefits and perks we offer at YETI.
YETI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Our commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture is at the center of everything we do for our employees. We embrace all applicants looking to bring their authentic selves to YETI and contribute to our mission of keeping the wild WILD. Find out more about our commitment to DE&I at [protected info]
All applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws.
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YETI welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. If you require accommodation in order to apply for a job, please contact us at [protected info].