Innovation Quality Engineer

For more than 50 years, Cannondale has been a leading innovator in the cycling world. As more riders of all ages and abilities get on the roads, trails, and streets than ever before, we’re here to do the best work of our lives to push the greatest human‑powered machine into the future each and every day. We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce where every teammate can succeed as we inspire riders everywhere. Fuelled by a free‑thinking, always‑game, got‑your‑back mentality, we ditched the rulebook and set forward on a path to make iconic bikes that simply work better. We look forward to the ride with you.

As an Innovation Quality Engineer, you will connect product innovation with the discipline needed to bring reliable, high‑performing bikes to market. You will work closely with Product Development and R&D teams to integrate quality principles from early concept through validation and commercialization, helping ensure new technologies meet performance, safety, and regulatory standards without slowing momentum.

Based in Freiburg, you will be part of Cannondale’s research and development hub, located on the historic Ganter Brewery grounds overlooking the Dreisam River. It is a hands‑on environment where engineering, testing, and riding come together day to day.

How You’ll Make an Impact

Innovation Quality Integration

Collaborate with Product Development to embed quality into early‑stage development and concept validation.

Act as quality decision‑maker at innovation gates, confirming readiness before phase progression.

Develop frameworks and testing protocols for emerging technologies, including e‑bikes, smart components, and advanced materials.

Conduct Design for Quality initiatives to improve manufacturability, reliability, and performance.

Support portfolio reviews by evaluating quality risk, technology readiness, and validation maturity.

Define and maintain quality gates and decision criteria across innovation phases.

Testing & Validation

• Work with R&D to design and implement innovative testing methodologies for new technologies and components

Collaborate with external research institutions and test labs for specialized capabilities.

Evaluate quality implications of new materials, processes, and component technologies.

Quality Systems & Administration

Establish, document, and improve innovation‑related processes within the quality management system.

Contribute to risk assessments, identifying hazards and recommending mitigation strategies.

Manage compliance testing and certification tracking.

Stay current on global test standards, regulatory requirements, and market‑specific expectations.

Verify product quality through structured reporting, issue tracking, and action management.

What You Bring to the Table

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical field (or equivalent experience)
• 2‑5 years’ experience in a related field; strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts for diverse audiences
• Knowledge of EN/ISO standards, CPSC, CPSIA, and other regulations applicable to bicycles and related components
• Highly process‑oriented with exceptional attention to detail
• Self‑motivated individual with an eagerness to learn and continuously develop their skills
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required

Some of Our Great Benefits

• Hybrid work environment
• A mix of casual yet professional culture
• Commuter Incentive Program
• Great discounts on company products
• Located inside the Ganter brewery overlooking the Dreisam River
• Lunch rides
• Office events (Summer and Christmas)

About the organization

As a proud member of the Pon Holdings family, Cannondale benefits from the strong foundation and extensive network of one of the Netherlands’ largest family‑owned businesses, as well as the largest bike portfolio in the world: Pon.Bike, including brands like Gazelle, Santa Cruz, Cervélo, Kalkhoff, Focus, Urban Arrow, Veloretti and Swapfiets. Being a part of Cannondale means being part of a dynamic and forward‑thinking organization backed by the strength and stability of Pon Holdings.

Our DEI Mission Statement

At Cannondale, we are on a mission to ensure all members of the cycling community feel that they belong. Our commitment to celebrating individuality and differences extends beyond our diverse line up of bikes to our workplace culture, where we recognize and embrace the strengths and viewpoints of each team member, regardless of their background or identity. We are thankful for the feedback and perspectives that challenge us to create more inclusivity in this space and hold us accountable to making meaningful progress.

We are a Cycle Friendly Employer

The cycle‑friendly employer certification scheme was developed to establish a European standard for cycle friendly companies. The certification is intended to help European companies to improve the situation for employees that cycle to work. As an acknowledgement for our effort we received the certificate “cycle‑friendly employer”.

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