Manager - Systems Validation
Realtruck, Inc.
Ann Arbor, MI, USA
Posted on May 13, 2026
POSITION SUMMARY
The Manager of Systems Validation Engineering is responsible for the testing and validation function for RealTruck. This position will be responsible for leading the corporate testing lab, it’s processes, and it’s people. They will work cross functionally to manage priorities, timing, create standards and best practices, and ensure that the lab is constantly moving forward and improving it’s capabilities as the company grows. Each year they will participate in the budget planning process to ensure that we are maintaining current and expanding new capabilities where it makes sense, and they will execute on those plans in the budget year, ensuring that new equipment, staff, and tools are delivered on time, and to budget. Finally, the Manager of Systems Validation Engineering will be responsible for quoting both internal and external testing to support our partners in quoting new business, and scoping projects through the annual roadmap scoping process.
CORE FUNCTIONS
- Responsible for managing the overall test and validation function for Real Truck, including the Lab, it’s equipment, and the staff.
- Works cross functionally to ensure that priorities are agreed upon, clear, and programs remain on-track, and on budget regarding validation
- Review test reports for accuracy and completeness.
- Maintain business relationships and master service agreements with external testing sources.
- Prepare professional and effective documentation to communicate results to both internal and external customers.
- Lead and engage in trouble shooting with the engineering teams to develop options for success during complex situations.
- Hire, train and mentor direct reports
- Modernizes the current visual dashboard and tracking systems, creating better transparency across the organization
QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering is required.
- 7+ years of hands-on, professional experience in a test lab setting
Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge
- Knowledgeable in load/deflection testing, environmental testing, corrosion testing, cyclic durability testing, UV testing, on-vehicle testing.
- Skilled in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Ability to prepare and effectively communicate presentations to internal and external stakeholders.
- SolidWorks or other CAD experience is desirable but not required.
- Ability to write, speak, and comprehend English.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills with a focus on root cause analysis.
- Working knowledge of lab management tools and techniques
- Experienced in establishing ISO-17025 Lab certification
- Experience with IATF 16949:2016 requirements and audits
Travel
- Ability to travel locally (Metro-Detroit) and domestically as required. Travel estimated to be roughly <10% (initially higher due to learning curve). Out of state travel anticipated to be 1-2 weeks per year maximum.
COMPETENCIES
- Adaptability – Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.
- Analytical – Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs workflows and procedures.
- Judgement– Displays willingness to make decisions; Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; Supports and explains reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions.
- Interpersonal Skills – Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality; Listens to others without interrupting; Keeps emotions under control; Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things.
- Professionalism – Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments.
- Verbal Communication – Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
- Written Communication – Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.
SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES
- This position plans, staffs, evaluates, and directs the work of employees of a work unit. This role has direct reports.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- This position is subject to medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.
Physical Activities
- This position is subject to the following physical activities; pushing, pulling, lifting, talking, and hearing.
Visual Acuity
- The worker is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer terminal; expansive reading; visual inspection involving small defects, small parts and/or operation of machines (including inspection); using measurement devices; and/or assembly of fabrication of parts at distances close to the eyes.
Working Conditions
The position is located within a technical office environment with proper HVAC where a private desk/cubicle will be provided. Further, there are shop facilities which are both environmentally controlled, and not environmentally controlled (Machine Shop, Vehicle and Mock-up areas). These facilities are separate from production facilities.
Perks That Go the Extra Mile:
At RealTruck, we take care of our people—because they drive our success. Enjoy great benefits like medical, dental, and vision coverage, company-paid life insurance and disability, and a 401(k) with company match (eligible the first of the month after you start). Need balance? We’ve got wellbeing days and parental leave. Want to grow? Take advantage of educational reimbursement. Plus, earn referral bonuses and score exclusive employee discounts on RealTruck products. Great benefits. Great people. Even better careers.
RealTruck is the premier manufacturer and digital destination of accessories for truck, Jeep®, Bronco® and off-road enthusiasts around the world. Globally headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, RealTruck’s 6,000+ associates operate from 35+ facilities across four continents. RealTruck’s industry leading product portfolio, which includes the Husky Liners total vehicle protection brand, boasts over 1,000 patents and pending applications. The company’s omni-channel retail approach delivers a seamless consumer experience online at RealTruck.com, as well as through its 12,000+ dealer network and automotive (OEM) partnerships.