Manager, Prototype

At Kids2, we're really good at what we do. And when we're great at our jobs, we help parents be great at their jobs.

Parenting is demanding, and that's where we come in. We want to reimagine how brands can make it easier for early stage parents – not by just selling them products, but by providing holistic solutions that transcend borders, categories and aisles.

No matter our title or department, at Kids2, our job is to create more tiny wins for parents, so they can create bright futures for their little ones. That's a big task

We're serious about what we do, AND we love to have fun. Our team is hardworking, entrepreneurial, and passionate about helping families create millions, if not billions of tiny wins.

SUMMARY

Lead and oversee the prototype development team to ensure efficient operations and successful delivery of infant products and toys during the prototype stage. Drive strategic planning, resource allocation, and cross-functional collaboration to align prototype development with business objectives. Manage project timelines, budgets, and quality standards while fostering innovation and continuous improvement.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Lead and mentor a team of product development engineers and technicians in prototype design, testing, and validation.
• Oversee the entire prototype lifecycle, from concept initiation to final product handover.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for prototype operations, ensuring alignment with company goals.
• Manage project budgets, resource allocation, and cost estimation for prototype development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (R&D, Manufacturing, Quality) to resolve technical challenges and optimize processes.
• Review and approve product structures, tooling plans, BOMs, and component drawings.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards during prototype development.
• Liaise with customers and stakeholders to address project requirements, timelines, and technical issues.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance prototype efficiency, reduce costs, and accelerate time-to-market.
• Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies to incorporate innovative solutions into prototype design.
• Prepare and present progress reports to senior leadership on project status, risks, and mitigation strategies.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 10 years of experience in product development within the toy or consumer goods industry, including 5+ years in a managerial role.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale prototype projects from concept to production.
• Strong expertise in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, PRO/E) and 3D modeling tools.
• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, tooling design, and assembly techniques.
• Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to motivate teams and foster a collaborative environment.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning capabilities.
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken) for technical communication and customer interaction.

EDUCATION & SKILLS (COMPUTER/TECHNICAL SKILLS):

• Advanced project management skills; PMP certification is a plus.
• Strong analytical and data-driven mindset for process optimization.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools (e.g., MS Project, JIRA).
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies is preferred.
• Education above junior college level.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• When carrying out this task, we need to stand or sit up, have flexible hands and feet, and have normal listening and speaking ability.
• The ability of color judgment is needed. The color blind and the weak are not suitable for this work.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• General factory working environment.
• There may be business trips around Jiangxi Province, Guangdong Province,Hongkong, Shanghai and the surrounding areas.

We offer competitive pay, flexible hours, and generous benefits. Plus, to keep things fun (because we are all kids at heart), we offer a host of team member activities and philanthropic efforts throughout the year and company-wide awards and recognition for a job well done

Check out our website at and our social media pages on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram for more information and open positions in the career section.

Drug Free Workplace M/F/D/V