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.

#LI-RS1