Director of Innovation

The Director of Innovation drives the research, development, and integration of new technologies, materials, and processes into Dekko’s product lines. This role focuses on early-stage concept development, rapid prototyping, and feasibility testing to deliver commercially viable solutions. Collaborating cross-functionally with Product Management, Engineering, Manufacturing, and external partners, this leader ensures innovation aligns with business growth strategies and market needs.

In this role, you will help define and execute the innovation vision, drive cross-functional collaboration, and bring transformative products to market. You will lead and mentor a high-performance team, ensuring resources are strategically deployed to deliver meaningful and scalable innovation.

• Develop intellectual property (IP) strategies, including patents and competitive analyses, to protect Dekko’s technology pipeline
• Ensure design for manufacturability (DFM), assembly (DFA), and reliability in new products.
• Integrate mechanics, materials, thermodynamics, and heat transfer to influence innovative product designs.
• Conduct risk assessments, failure mode analysis, and design optimization to enhance product reliability.
• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies, trends, and materials to drive innovation.
• Partner with marketing, sales, and product management to align innovation initiatives with business goals.
• Support design validation, regulatory compliance, and risk assessment for market readiness.
• Engage with universities, technology providers, and industry leaders to integrate emerging advancements into Dekko’s product development pipeline.
• Conduct feasibility studies, proof-of-concept testing, and rapid prototyping to assess new product opportunities.
• Apply expertise in electrical/electronics fundamentals and design, with a strong understanding of power and data systems, lighting controls, and integrated power solutions. Focus on incorporating smart and energy-efficient technologies into product development.
• Foster a culture of innovation by mentoring engineers, leading ideation workshops, and implementing best practices for rapid development.
• Advocate for continuous improvement through new materials, sustainability initiatives, and smart technology integration.
• Lead the development of manufacturable, cost-effective solutions with a focus on power and data systems, lighting controls, and smart technologies.

• Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping tools (SOLIDWORKS, simulation software, 3D printing).
• Expertise in electrical/mechanical design, power electronics, materials science, and thermal management.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience in industry-specific technologies such as lighting, power, and electronics.
• Proficiency in DFM, DFA, and reliability engineering for scalable manufacturing.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Knowledge of intellectual property strategies, including patents and competitive analysis.
• Background in sustainability, energy efficiency, or smart technologies is a plus.
• 7+ years of experience in new product innovation, R&D, or advanced engineering roles.
• Strong background in concept validation, feasibility testing, and failure analysis.
• Advanced understanding of thermal management, material science, and power electronics.

• Full benefits Day 1 and an 8% fully funded company retirement plan
• The opportunity to turn ideas into real-world solutions