Senior Manager, Vehicle Technology

WHO WE ARE

Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to a fair and just marketplace for consumers. Our team is made up of truth tellers, change agents, and consumer advocates who investigate and build coalitions to fight for fairness and justice in the marketplace for consumers. We leverage our evidence-based approach to demand safer products, a healthier environment, and equitable services for everyone. 

Our mission starts with you. We offer medical benefits that start on your first day as a CR employee that include behavioral health coverage, family planning and a generous 401K match. Learn more about how CR advocates on behalf of our employees.

OVERVIEW

At CR we know there’s more to testing cars than measuring how the rubber meets theroad, after all we’ve been testing and reporting on the subject for over 85-years. We’re on the cutting edge of auto technology-buying and testing over 50+ new cars a year--including EV’s, plug-in hybrids and of course, gas cars-- driving each car 2,000 break-in miles, even before we take a look under the hood. 

As a Senior Manager, Vehicle Technology at our 327-acre Auto Test Center, you will report to the Associate Director, Auto Test Development. You will provide expertise and leadership on the test development and consumer research of vehicles with emphasis on emerging technologies, such as ADAS and UX while ensuring our testing is representative of the current needs and preferences of consumers. You will also lead CR’s Advisory Services-scoping, planning and executing these B2B projects, working directly with clients and/or providing industry reports.

If you have experience in emerging technology in the auto industry, such as ADAS and UX and genuinely care about keeping consumers safer on the road, this is an ideal position for you. Check out here how CR applies a usability lens to our auto testing. 

The successful candidate should anticipate being onsite at our Colchester, CT Auto Test Center up to 4 days per week. This position is not eligible for sponsorship.

How You'll Make an Impact

The extensive testing and exhaustive feedback that CR’s auto testers share is critical.  This is the information that consumers rely on before they decide which vehicle to purchase. Auto manufacturers are listening as well, using findings from our data, testing and research to influence the safety and usability features included in the cars and trucks they build. Your passion for cars with advanced knowledge and insights into the automotive industry and emerging technology will play a huge part in how we test, capture, and record this influential data. On a daily basis, you may: 

• Partner with other ATC staff and Data Intelligence to develop, implement, and oversee expanded vehicle testing.
• Serve as the primary point of contact to coordinate projects, staff, and deliverables. 
• Write in-depth industry-facing technical reports to demonstrate thought leadership in key areas.
• Plan and execute virtual and in-person working groups and presentations on technical topics.
• Develop connections and strategic partnerships to ensure alignment on emerging technologies. 
• Serve as a technical expert on behalf of CR on industry and regulatory committees to influence testing procedures and safety standards. 
• Stay up to date on trends to help guide the industry and maintain CR's thought leadership position.
• Partner on designing and analyzing research to ensure consumer interests are captured.
• Partner with content and video to highlight features to consumers through multiple platforms.
• Serve as CR spokesperson for TV, radio, and print media.
• Provide oversight and direction to staff; provides feedback on performance.

ABOUT YOU

You’ll Be Highly Rated If:

• You have the education. A BA/BS in Engineering or related field is the minimum requirement.
• You have the experience. You have at least 5-years relevant and practical experience in automotive human factors or ergonomics.
• You have performed vehicle testing and provided objective and subjective assessments.
• You are a strong communicator. You have top interpersonal skills and great attention to detail.
• You’ve got a track record (pun intended) of working collaboratively and constructively across departments.
• You are an influencer--able to lead in the absence of a direct reporting relationship.
• You have managed others. You can build and manage high-performing teams and translate vision into action.
• You have and must maintain a valid driver’s license.
• You are available to travel. 

You’ll Be Our Top Pick If:

• You have an advanced degree. You have earned a master’s degree or doctorate in Engineering, Human Factors or a related field.
• You have experience in the automotive industry, either in a related vehicle-testing capacity or within research.

FAIR PAY AND A JUST WORKPLACE

At Consumer Reports, we are committed to fair, transparent pay and we strive to provide competitive, market-informed compensation.The target salary range for this position is $120K-$140K. It is anticipated that most qualified candidates will fall near the middle of this range.Compensation for the successful candidate will be informed by the candidate’s particular combination of knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience.

Consumer Reports is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions or lactation), gender identity and expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service or veteran status, protected medical condition as defined by applicable state or local law, disability, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.  Consumer Reports will provide you with any reasonable assistance or accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process.