Overview We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Team Leader to manage our R&D mechanical department. This is a pivotal role designed for a senior technical expert who thrives in a dynamic environment and is looking to step into a leadership position without losing touch with the drawing board. The successful candidate will be responsible for the mechanical integrity of our products, leading a team of engineers while actively contributing to CAD design and project execution. This position is located at the Ariete brand headquarters in Campi Bisenzio (FI). Ariete is a multi-specialist brand with products present in all categories of small household appliances and with a strong personality, and is a dynamic brand in continuous growth both in Italy and worldwide. Innovation and design are the distinctive elements of Ariete products. Innovation means looking ahead and satisfying every new need dictated by the constant change in consumer trends. Ariete was founded in Florence in 1964, and is part of the De’Longhi Group since 2001. Responsibilities Product Development & Design Leadership: Lead and actively participate in the entire product development cycle, from initial concept to mass production. You will be responsible for hands-on 3D CAD modeling and drafting of complex mechanical solutions. Active Design (Hands-on): Personally design and engineer mechanical components and systems, ensuring innovative solutions that meet technical specifications, quality standards, and cost targets. Project & Resource Management: Manage multiple R&D projects simultaneously. You will be responsible for defining timelines, allocating internal resources, and ensuring that project milestones are met across the team. Prototyping & Validation: Oversee the prototyping phase (including rapid prototyping) and testing of new concepts. Iterate designs based on lab results and performance feedback to ensure product excellence. Technical Supervision: Act as the technical authority for the mechanical team, providing guidance on design best practices, material selection, and manufacturing feasibility. Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with Marketing, Purchasing, and Production departments to align mechanical design with market needs and manufacturing capabilities. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all mechanical designs comply with international safety regulations and industry standards. Job Profile Requirements & Experience: Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. CAD Expertise: Advanced proficiency in 3D CAD tools (preferably Siemens NX or similar high-end software) is mandatory. We are looking for a true power user. Plastics Specialist: Extensive experience in the design of plastic components and a deep understanding of plastic injection molding processes and materials. Mechanical Knowledge: Solid understanding of mechanical processing technologies, plastic deformation, die casting, and assembly methods. Leadership & Coordination: Previous experience in coordinating technical teams or workgroups is highly preferred. You should be able to motivate and guide resources in a fast-paced environment. International Mindset: Previous experience working within international teams (specifically with Chinese counterparts/subsidiaries) is highly valued. Rapid Prototyping: Familiarity with modern rapid prototyping technologies and their application in R&D. Languages: Fluency in English is mandatory (written and spoken). Soft Skills: Creative problem-solver with a can-do attitude; flexible, adaptable, and capable of managing time effectively under pressure. Mobility: Willingness to travel abroad for project-related needs. Benefits Wellbeing Initiatives: Engagement surveys, comprehensive welfare program, company restaurant, and health insurance. Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours and smart working options. Learning & Development: Opportunities for both hard and soft skills training, performance appraisals, and international career paths. Corporate Perks: Special pricing for company products, external partnerships, discounts, and smart lockers. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, we reject and condemn any form of discrimination including discrimination based on age, gender, sexual orientation, health, race, nationality, cultural background, political opinions and religious beliefs, and membership of associations and trade unions. #J-18808-Ljbffr