Director of Labs, CNET Group

Description

Position at Consumer Tech

The Opportunity:

CNET Group is seeking a technically savvy Labs Director who will lead our expert team of Lab Engineers and Technicians as well as the onsite CNET Group lab operations in our 15,000 square foot facility. This leader will guide daily product testing, generating proprietary test data for use across brands in the CNET Group portfolio, which includes CNET, PCMag, Mashable, Lifehacker and ZDNET.

The Labs Director will also help lead wider Labs efforts and projects across brands, including standardizing test processes for internal stakeholders and helping design and launch new tests as needed. As a people manager, the Labs Director will guide the team to achieve a high standard of work while maintaining production goals. The role will support the adoption of internal tools and assist in planning and executing the complex needs of a coordinated CNET Group Labs project. This position reports to and works closely with CNET Group’s VP of Growth and Optimization to help achieve the team’s broader business goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Effectively manage and oversee a team of onsite Labs engineers and technicians to meet quality, efficiency and productivity targets
• Oversee a 15,000 square-foot testing facility
• Help lead a coordinated labs effort across CNET Group brands
• Possess mechanical and buildout skills for physical assembly of test beds a strong bonus – e.g. welding, construction, etc.
• Anticipate and troubleshoot product testing needs, including methodology
• Drive analysis of test results that promote insights that serve CNET Group audiences
• Help drive the evolution and adoption of internal tools
• Prioritize testing schedule to align with broader business mission
• Work effectively with cross-functional partners
• Embrace a problem-solving mindset to tackle challenges
• Collaborate, problem solve, and find compromises with editors on testing methodologies
• Communicate effectively with VP of Growth and Optimization

Job Qualifications:

• 5+ years of direct or commensurate experience in a product testing role
• 2+ years experience managing direct reports
• Mechanical, chemical, and/or software engineering background preferred
• Extensive practical knowledge of product testing methodology and analysis
• Excellent communication skills, including an appreciation for and willingness to participate in publishing and journalism in both video and written settings
• Ability to organize and manage complex projects
• Ability to motivate a team to deliver quality against deadlines
• Proven self-starter with a track record of success
• Strong work ethic with a high degree of determination and drive; strong organizational skills
• Effectively identifies and communicates potential opportunities and issues
• Solutions-oriented mindset and team player
• Keen attention to detail
• Familiarity with tech publishing and journalism a plus
• Ability to work 40 hours per week in-person at the testing facility; no remote or hybrid option available for this role