About the role
The OEM Manager serves as the primary technical liaison between Lubrizol and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. This role combines technical expertise with project management to support OEM partnerships, drive product approvals, and enable new business opportunities. Responsibilities include managing technical relationships, overseeing customer-specific projects, supporting product development and commercialization, and ensuring timely execution of OEM approval processes. The position requires strong collaboration with R&D, sales, and marketing teams to deliver value and maintain Lubrizol’s leadership in fluid engineering solutions.
What We're Looking For:
* Understand OEM Needs: Gather OEM requirements and value propositions; communicate insights internally to guide technology development.
* Technical Consulting: Advise customers on lubrication applications and product selection; deliver training on product use.
* Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong technical relationships with OEM engineers, product managers, and global partners.
* Project Management: Lead customer-specific technical projects, including new product development, scale-up, and commercialization; ensure on-time delivery.
* Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with R&D to share customer needs and with Sales to deliver market value.
* Account Planning: Own the technical portion of customer account plans and participate in regular business reviews.
* Product & Industry Approvals: Manage OEM and industry product approval processes, including identification, execution, and maintenance.
* Marketing Support: Partner with product management and marketing to promote key product approvals through forums, seminars, and trade shows.
* Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with upstream and downstream partners to deliver cohesive market solutions.
Skills That Make a Difference:
* Bachelor’s degree in engineering, chemistry, or a related technical discipline.
* 3+ years of experience in technical roles, ideally with OEM project management or HVAC/R exposure.
* Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects and deliver results on time.
* Strong collaboration skills with R&D, sales, and technical teams.
* Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet) and CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, Dynamics).
* Experience managing technical relationships with OEM engineers, product managers, and technical personnel.
* Excellent communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.
* Ability to influence without authority and thrive in a matrixed environment.
* Able and willing to travel up to 25%, primarily domestic, with extremely rare international travel.
* Preferred: HVAC/R industry experience and PMP certification; global team experience a plus.
Perks and Rewards That Inspire:
* Competitive salary with performance-based bonus plans
* 401K Match plus Age Weighted Defined Contribution
* Comprehensive medical, dental & vision offerings
* Health Savings Account
* Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Parental Leave
* Flexible work environment