What are the responsibilities and job description for the Engineering Manager position at A P Nonweiler Company Inc?
Since 1929, APN Specialty Coatings has built its reputation on innovation, precision, and performance. Our facility in Oshkosh, WI, encompasses 160,000 square feet of production space and includes a dedicated R&D lab staffed by chemists with deep industry expertise. From high-performance resinous coatings for industrial and commercial sectors to residential contractors, specialty protective and metallic coatings, we define our place in the market through quality, consistency, technical expertise, and superior customer service.
In this new era of strategic growth, APN is expanding capabilities, modernizing operations, and strengthening its position as a leader in performance coatings. Our product portfolio includes the PurEpoxy, Res-Tek, Crescent Bronze, and MirroCoat brands. We also provide toll and turnkey manufacturing for several established coatings companies. In addition to our corporate office in Wisconsin, APN operates manufacturing sites in Laval, Quebec, and Cartersville, Georgia, broadening our reach across North America to drive innovation, collaboration, process optimization, and customer service excellence.
Position Summary
APN Specialty Coatings is seeking an experienced Engineering Manager to lead engineering and maintenance functions across three manufacturing sites. This high-impact role will oversee Process Engineering, Project Engineering, Continuous Improvement, and Capital Improvement Projects, while directly managing Maintenance and Reliability teams. The Engineering Manager will play a critical role in driving operational excellence, productivity improvements, equipment reliability, and strategic growth initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic & Technical Leadership
- Lead and develop engineering strategies that support operational goals and long-term growth.
- Oversee planning and execution of Capital Improvement Projects, ensuring alignment with budget, timeline, and safety standards.
- Champion Continuous Improvement initiatives across all sites, leveraging Lean, Six Sigma, 5S and TPM methodologies.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize manufacturing processes and implement best practices.
- Develop and implement robust Asset Management strategies to maximize equipment lifecycle, ensure regulatory compliance, and support long-term capital planning.
Maintenance & Reliability
- Direct maintenance and reliability functions, ensuring uptime, asset care, and preventive maintenance programs are effective.
- Implement CMMS systems and reliability-centered maintenance practices.
- Monitor equipment performance and drive root cause analysis for recurring issues.
Project & Process Engineering
- Manage engineering projects from concept through commissioning, including scope development, vendor selection, and installation.
- Support process optimization, new product scale-up, and troubleshooting across production lines.
- Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and regulatory standards.
Leadership & Collaboration
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of technicians, engineers and maintenance professionals.
- Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous learning.
- Partner with Operations, Quality, and R&D to support product development and manufacturing excellence.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or related field); Master’s degree a plus.
- 8 years of engineering experience in manufacturing environments, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
- Proven success in managing capital projects, maintenance programs, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Strong understanding of coatings, chemicals, or related process industries is a plus.
- Experience with CMMS, AutoCAD, and project management tools.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to travel between sites as needed.
Key Competencies
- Strategic Thinking – Aligns engineering efforts with business goals.
- Technical Expertise – Applies engineering principles to solve complex manufacturing challenges.
- Leadership – Builds high-performing teams and drives accountability.
- Continuous Improvement – Identifies and implements process enhancements.
- Collaboration – Works cross-functionally to support operational success.
- Project Management – Delivers projects on time and within budget.
Why Join APN
This is a high-visibility role with the opportunity to shape engineering strategy across a growing multi-site operation. You’ll be at the forefront of APN’s modernization efforts, driving innovation and reliability in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k) with company match, paid time off, medical, dental, and vision insurance, HSA with employer contributions, life and disability coverage, profit-sharing bonuses, tuition assistance, and professional development opportunities.
Physical Requirements
This position requires regular movement throughout manufacturing facilities, including climbing stairs, standing for extended periods, and occasional lifting up to 25 pounds. Travel between sites is required.
Work Environment
This role operates in both office and production environments. Exposure to noise, chemicals, and temperature variations may occur. Standard business hours apply, with occasional extended hours to meet project or operational needs.
Equal Opportunity Employer
APN Specialty Coatings is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Benefits:
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Retirement plan
- 401(k) matching
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
- Health savings account
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending accounts
- Life insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Disability insurance
- Profit sharing
- Flexible schedule
Work Location: In person