Director, Engineering

Director, Engineering – Exempt

Hanwha Aerospace USA has long been recognized as a leader in the development and supply of flight‑critical Aerospace/Defense components and assemblies. Operating out of four state‑of‑the‑art facilities located in Connecticut, Hanwha Aerospace USA offers growth and career development opportunities to enrich your talents.

The Director of Manufacturing Engineering for Hanwha Aerospace USA is responsible for leading and managing the manufacturing engineering teams at all sites to ensure efficient, high‑quality production processes. This role focuses on strategic planning, process improvement, and the implementation of advanced technologies to support the production of aerospace components and systems. The Director will work closely with other functional areas to drive manufacturing excellence and innovation.

Location: Cheshire, CT

Reports to: General Manager

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the manufacturing engineering team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Provide coaching and leadership that supports engineers’ professional development, establishes clear growth paths, promotes engagement, and builds a high‑performing, collaborative organization.
• Set objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) for the team, and monitor progress against these goals.
• Lead and influence cross‑functional and matrixed teams across multiple sites and functional disciplines to achieve strategic business and operational objectives.
• Ensure compliance with HAU policies and procedures.
• Develop and implement long‑term strategies for manufacturing engineering to support company goals and growth.
• Evaluate and adopt new manufacturing technologies and methodologies.
• Align manufacturing engineering activities with the overall business strategy and customer requirements.
• Lead organizational transformation initiatives by driving the implementation, adoption, and stabilization of standardized manufacturing work processes and engineering best practices across all sites.
• Demonstrate adaptability and change leadership by successfully managing enterprise‑wide initiatives and fostering organizational acceptance of new processes and ways of working.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Lead lean manufacturing initiatives and Six Sigma projects to optimize production processes.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for production issues.
• Oversee engineering projects from conception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and meet policies and procedures.
• Coordinate with cross‑functional teams, including R&D, production, quality, and supply chain, to ensure successful project execution.
• Manage the design and installation of new equipment and production lines.
• Stay current with advancements in aerospace manufacturing technology and industry trends.
• Drive the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, including automation, IoT, and data analytics, to enhance manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with IT and other departments to integrate new technologies into existing systems.
• Ensure all manufacturing processes comply with safety regulations, and company policies.
• Work closely with the quality assurance team to maintain high product quality and consistency.
• Implement and maintain AS9100 and other relevant aerospace certifications.
• Develop and manage the manufacturing engineering budget.
• Optimize resource allocation to ensure efficient use of personnel, equipment, and materials.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree or MBA is preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in manufacturing engineering within the aerospace industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Experience leading engineering organizations within a matrixed environment and successfully managing cross‑functional teams across multiple locations or business functions.
• Proven experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong project management skills, with a track record of successfully leading engineering projects in the aerospace sector.
• In‑depth knowledge of aerospace manufacturing processes, equipment, and technology.
• Demonstrated success leading organizational change, process standardization, or business transformation initiatives.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and decision‑making skills.
• Strong leadership and team‑building abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) certification.
• Experience with Industry 4.0 technologies and digital transformation in aerospace manufacturing.
• Knowledge of ERP and manufacturing execution systems (MES) used in aerospace.

Working Conditions

Primarily office‑based with frequent visits to manufacturing facilities. Occasional travel may be required, including visits to customer sites and industry events.

AAP Statement

Hanwha Aerospace USA, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, Sexual Orientation, and Gender Identity or Expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination.

• Subject to change with or without notice*