Lab Manager Jobs in Barrie, ON (NOW HIRING)

Napoleon leads the way with innovative engineering, advanced manufacturing techniques, unsurpassed customer service and remarkable product quality. Our award-winning products offer a best-in-class experience for all customers’ home comfort needs. While we are proudly Canadian, Napoleon is also fortunate to operate on a world-wide scale. 

The warmth and experience that Napoleon product brings to the homes of our customers transcends borders, language, and cultures to elevate everyday experiences, so you love being home. Throughout North America, Europe, South America and Asia, Napoleon creates memorable moments through our stunning designs and innovative technologies. 

This posting is for an existing permanent vacancy and is actively being recruited for. 

Title: Lab Technician II

Reports To: Lab Supervisor

Job Purpose: Independently executes and leads product validation and development testing activities across Hearth, HVAC, and Grills product lines.

Accountable for generating accurate, high-quality test data, performing detailed technical analysis, and providing sound engineering-based recommendations that influence product design, performance, durability, and certification outcomes.

Acts as a key technical contributor within cross-functional development teams, supporting new product development, product improvement, and resolution of field issues.

Key Responsibilities:

Testing & Validation Execution

• Independently execute and take ownership of performance, safety, and validation testing in accordance with internal standards and industry requirements (CSA, UL, ANSI, ASHRAE, AHRI, etc.).
• Determine appropriate test methods within defined standards and adapt procedures to address non-standard conditions or product variations
• Ensure technical integrity, accuracy, and repeatability of all testing activities
• Conduct testing across performance, safety, electrical/control systems, and environmental conditions (e.g., combustion, airflow, efficiency, ignition, temperature limits, durability, wind/rain testing)

Data Collection, Analysis & Reporting

• Collect, validate, analyze, and interpret test data using calibrated instrumentation and sound engineering principles.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of all recorded data, including raw data, images, and reports
• Interpret results to identify root causes, performance limitations, and design risks
• Generate clear, structured reports with conclusions and actionable recommendations

Technical Problem Solving & Troubleshooting

• Independently troubleshoot test setups, instrumentation, and product performance issues.
• Identify root causes of failures or anomalies
• Implement corrective actions within scope of responsibility
• Escalate complex issues with well-supported technical rationale

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Design Input

• Actively contribute to product development activities and cross-functional reviews.
• Present test results and defend conclusions in design and test review meetings
• Provide recommendations related to performance, manufacturability, durability, and cost
• Support root cause analysis activities in collaboration with Engineering and Quality

Prototype Build & Fabrication 

• Support development activities through hands-on prototype work.
• Build and modify prototype units from production or custom components
• Fabricate and adapt parts using PDT equipment and tools
• Identify and document design improvement opportunities during builds

Certification Testing & Compliance Support

• Lead certification testing activities for assigned projects.
• Prepare units and documentation for third-party testing
• Coordinate and support testing with external certification agencies
• Resolve issues to support successful and timely certification approval

Continuous Improvement & Knowledge Capture

• Document findings in “Lessons Learned” systems to improve future products and test methods
• Identify opportunities to improve test procedures, efficiency, and data quality

Planning & Execution of Assigned Work

• Plan and prioritize assigned testing activities to meet project timelines
• Identify constraints and communicate resource or timing risks proactively

Technical Guidance & Mentorship

• Provide day-to-day technical guidance to junior technicians, co-op students, and temporary staff.
• Ensure safe, accurate, and efficient execution of lab activities
• Support development of technical skills within the team

Lab Operation, Equipment & Safety

• Operate and maintain lab equipment safely and effectively
• Ensure all work complies with health and safety standards
• Maintain a clean, organized, and “5S” compliant work environment
• Actively participate in calibration and upkeep of testing/lab equipment

Other Responsibilities

• Technical Support for Production Department
• Work independently or in conjunction with corresponding PDT Engineering team, 
• Review and Update Work Instructions and Forms
• Provide occasional support for sample / show set-up for events within the company and at third party locations.

Education & Experience:

• Post-secondary diploma in Engineering Technology (Mechanical, Electrical, HVAC or related), or equivalent practical experience
• Typically, 3–7 years of relevant experience in a product development, manufacturing, or testing environment
• Demonstrated progression toward independent execution of testing and technical problem solving
• G3 / WETT / ODP (or ability to obtain within 2 years)
• Additional certifications (G2, 313, etc.) considered an asset
• Microsoft Office (Excel for data analysis and reporting)
• Lab data acquisition systems (e.g., LabVIEW) preferred
• CAD familiarity (e.g., SolidWorks) an asset
• Strong understanding of testing and measurement techniques
• Ability to apply engineering fundamentals (e.g., thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, electrical systems, combustion)
• Experience with data collection, analysis, and report generation
• Blueprint reading and technical documentation interpretation
• This role represents a fully qualified, independent technical contributor within the PDT lab environment. The Lab Technician Level 2 is expected to operate with a high degree of autonomy, technical judgment, and accountability for results, while supporting team collaboration and continuous improvement.

At Napoleon, we believe in creating an environment where our Associates can thrive personally and professionally. Here’s what you can look forward to when you join our team: 

Benefits, Health, Well-being & Support 

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage – 100% of premiums paid by the Company! 

• Long Term Disability Protection 

• Well-being support programs and virtual medical visits 

• Employee & Family Assistance Program for mental health and well-being (EAP) 

Career Growth & Development 

• Training Allowance and continuous learning opportunities and programs 

• Leadership development and mentorship programs 

• Clear pathways for advancement 

Culture & Community 

• Appreciation events, raffles, and team building activities 

• Napoleon Cares – A fund sponsored by Associates to help Associates in times of need 

Financial Security 

• Competitive total compensation package, inclusive of bonus opportunity 

• Retirement savings plan with matching Company contributions (RRSP/DPSP) 

• Exclusive Associate discounts on our award-winning products 

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure: As part of our commitment to transparency and fairness in hiring, we disclose that automated tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), may be used to support parts of the recruitment process. This may include functions such as resume parsing, candidate ranking, or initial screening. These tools do not make final hiring decisions but may assist Talent Acquisition in evaluating applications.AItools used may include systems based on algorithms, statistical models, or machine learning. 

The Napoleon Group of Companies is committed to fair and accessible employment practices that attract and retain Associates with disabilities. This includes providing accessibility across all stages of the employment cycle. Accommodation is available upon request. 

 We thank you for your interest in The Napoleon Group of Companies and for participating in our competition. Only those candidates selected for consideration will be contacted.