Director of Engineering

Director of Engineering – Custom Automation & Process Solutions

A leading provider of engineered solutions is seeking a Director of Engineering to lead and manage cross-functional engineering, service, and shop teams in the design and delivery of engineered-to-order process and automation systems. This role is ideal for a hands-on, strategic leader with experience in fluid processing, industrial system design, and technical team development.

This role offers the opportunity to lead a high-performing team delivering tailored solutions for clients in critical industries. Ideal candidates are both strategic and hands-on, passionate about solving complex engineering challenges, and energized by team and organizational development.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of engineering, service, and shop teams within the division.

Collaborate with senior leadership on strategic planning, special initiatives, and long-term vision for the engineering organization.

Support sales teams by evaluating customer needs and providing accurate estimates, proposals, and technical solutions.

Lead design and proposal reviews for cost-effectiveness, accuracy, and alignment with business goals.

Assign and prioritize personnel across departments to meet project and customer requirements.

Develop and manage the departmental budget, including staffing, tools, and capital equipment needs.

Review technical documentation such as P&IDs, process flow diagrams, schematics, and general assembly drawings.

Conduct periodic site visits to oversee major installations and ensure customer satisfaction.

Drive engineering excellence through mentoring, structured design reviews, and implementation of best practices.

Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and safety throughout the organization.

Establish and maintain partnerships with vendors and third-party equipment suppliers.

Coordinate safety programs for shop and field staff.

Champion employee development through coaching, training, and performance management.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering (required); Master’s or MBA preferred.

Minimum of 7 years leading and managing engineering teams delivering custom, project-based solutions.

At least 5 years of hands-on experience in the design of industrial systems or products.

Strong background in fluid processing , with preference for experience in sanitary systems within food, beverage, dairy, or pharmaceutical environments.

Proven leadership in work planning, hiring, team development, goal setting, and coaching.

Proficiency in engineering project management, including estimating, customer communication, scheduling, and vendor coordination.

Familiarity with engineering design methodologies (Stage Gate, Agile, Waterfall, etc.) and continuous improvement tools (Lean, Six Sigma).

Knowledge of drafting and modeling software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Creo.

Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office, ERP systems, and project tracking tools.

Understanding of designing for manufacturing and assembly is a plus.

Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.

Willingness to travel approximately 25% for site visits, installations, and vendor/customer meetings.

Must thrive in a collaborative, high-integrity, people-first work environment.

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