R&D Manager- Pickleball

HEAD is a leading global provider of premium, high-performance equipment and apparel for athletes and players, at all levels. Since our launch in 1950, we’ve achieved a reputation for cutting-edge design, engineering excellence and a passion for championing all sports, everywhere. World-class performance demands the very best equipment and that’s why, at HEAD, our purpose is to give athletes and players at every level, exactly what they need to compete at high levels.Who You AreYou have a natural curiosity in how products are constructed, what materials are used and why. Your dream is to design and develop sports equipment where players at all levels enjoy the game more because of your vision. You never thought you could build a career in racquet sports because it never felt like “work” to you. To you, it feels more like a passion than a profession.Your MissionYou will help shape the future of Pickleball equipment through innovation, testing, and product development. Your mission is to turn ideas, materials, and technologies into high-performance paddles that players genuinely love using.You will sit at the intersection of engineering, athlete feedback, manufacturing, and performance validation — helping bring products from concept to market. From experimenting with new composite constructions and layups to collaborating with suppliers and professional players, you will play a direct role in building the next generation of HEAD Pickleball products.This role is for someone who gets excited about the details: layups, foams, vibration, balance, feel, durability, and performance. Someone who wants to ask “why,” test everything, and continuously push products forward.Key ResponsibilitiesLead technical project management for the development of all HEAD Pickleball paddles Collaborate closely with Product Management, Predevelopment, Design, Testing, and Global R&D teams throughout the product creation process Work directly with manufacturing partners and suppliers, including international factory visits Support the development and validation of new technologies, materials, and construction methods Conduct competitor benchmarking, lab testing, and on-court performance evaluations Partner with professional athletes to create specialized products and gather technical feedback Maintain strong relationships with governing bodies and federations such as USA Pickleball and UPA Coordinate with research institutes and external technical partners connected to racquet sports innovation Serve as an internal technical resource for materials, construction methods, testing protocols, and industry researchQualifications1-3+ years’ experience in composite materials, product testing, manufacturing processes, iterative development, supplier communication, and/or technical problem solvingTechnical degree or something similar (mechanical engineering, physic, sports tech or science)Basic composite and construction understanding (carbon fibers, foams, etc.)Understanding of measurement protocolsPassion, excitement and curiosity for racquet sports (Pickleball preferred)Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States. This is an in-office position located in Phoenix, Arizona. You will be traveling approximately 25%, which includes international travel to Asia and Europe.Compensation & Benefits: This position offers a competitive compensation package, including base salary and performance-based bonus. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and vacation time.Please include a cover letter on why you are a strong fit for this role.