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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