Director of Engineering
Custom Manufacturing & Pre-Fabricated Structures
Position Overview
The Director of Engineering is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing all engineering operations in a custom manufacturing environment. This individual will manage the engineering team, coordinate project schedules, maintain high standards of engineering excellence, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. The role also serves as the primary liaison with external engineering firms, and the internal design team to drive successful project outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Team Leadership & Management
Lead, mentor, and develop the engineering team to achieve departmental and organizational goals
Oversee recruitment, training, and performance evaluations for engineering staff
Foster a collaborative and innovative team culture
Project & Schedule Management
Develop and maintain engineering project schedules, ensuring timely and on-budget delivery
Allocate resources efficiently to meet project milestones and customer requirements
Monitor project progress and adjust plans as necessary to resolve issues
External Relationship Management
Serve as the primary point of contact for external architects and engineering consulting firms
Negotiate and manage contracts, scope, and deliverables with external partners
Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between internal teams and external stakeholders
Engineering Standards & Compliance
Establish, maintain, and enforce engineering standards and best practices
Ensure all engineering work complies with relevant codes, regulations, and quality standards
Lead initiatives for continuous improvement in engineering processes and documentation
Documentation & Reporting
Oversee the creation, maintenance, and accuracy of engineering documentation, including drawings, specifications, and compliance records
Prepare regular reports on engineering performance, project status, and compliance metrics for senior management
Design Development
Work closely with the internal design development team to translate design intent into comprehensive engineering packages, ensuring all technical documentation aligns with the original design direction
Facilitate regular joint meetings, design reviews, and feedback sessions to maintain alignment, resolve technical challenges early, and minimize rework
Promote open communication and shared objectives between engineering and design, fostering a unified approach to product development
Implement structured processes for design handoff, clarification of requirements, and iterative feedback to ensure engineering deliverables fully support design vision and manufacturability
Encourage the use of collaborative tools and model-based definitions to create a seamless flow of information between design and engineering, reducing errors and accelerating project timelines
This collaborative approach ensures engineering solutions are developed directly from internal design direction, supporting innovation while maintaining efficiency and compliance.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering or a related field
10+ years of progressive engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within manufacturing or AEC
Proven track record of managing engineering teams and complex projects
Strong knowledge of engineering standards, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
Experience working with external architects, engineering firms, and regulatory bodies
Desired Skills
Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
Proficiency in project management tools and methodologies
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Ability to drive process improvements and foster innovation
Reporting Structure
Reports to: Chief Operating Officer (COO) Direct Reports: Project Engineers, Design Engineers
This role is critical to ensuring the technical excellence and operational efficiency of the custom manufacturing business, while maintaining strong relationships with external partners and upholding the highest standards of engineering compliance and documentation.
Location Hybrid - Western NY
In-person leadership is crucial for the engineering and fabrication teams at both manufacturing sites in Rochester and Canandaigua, NY
We offer competitive salary and benefit packages - commensurate with experience.