Engineering Manager

The Thermoforming Engineering Manager is responsible for leading and developing the Thermoforming Engineering team to ensure optimal performance across all engineering functions. This role focuses on cultivating a high-performing team, driving strategic projects, and supporting Thermoforming Operations in achieving peak efficiency, safety, and quality. The manager will also serve as the lead engineer on complex or high-impact initiatives, ensuring successful execution and alignment with organizational goals.

• Promote and uphold a positive safety culture, ensuring personal and team compliance with all safety protocols, including those involving vendors and contractors.
• Develop and lead the Thermoforming Engineering team, providing mentorship, continuous feedback, and annual performance reviews to drive growth and accountability.
• Partner with manufacturing managers and leadership to align priorities and drive cross-departmental initiatives.
• Evaluate manufacturing processes for cost-effectiveness and feasibility; implement improvements to enhance safety, efficiency, and cost savings.
• Guide and manage plant renovations, expansions, and capital projects, including coordination with external contractors and vendors.
• Provide engineering expertise to support production, printing, maintenance, tooling, and other operational teams.
• Monitor and report on cost savings and efficiency gains from implemented projects.
• Prepare and manage the capital budget, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• Support testing and evaluation of new or advanced resins for processability.
• Address customer complaints and lead corrective and preventive action initiatives.
• Ensure adherence to all company safety, environmental, and health regulations.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
• Proven experience in thermoforming or plastics manufacturing strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of thermoforming and/or injection molding processes, equipment, and materials.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and engineering analysis tools.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with capital project planning, budgeting, and execution.
• Knowledge of safety, environmental, and health regulations applicable to manufacturing operations.

• Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and develop engineering teams.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate across departments and levels of the organization.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

The role is based in a plastics manufacturing environment which is climate-controlled. The position operates during the day shift.

This is a Permanent position based out of Lawrence, KS.

The pay range for this position is $130000.00 - $135000.00/yr.

Company has excellent benefits will send them two candidates later on in the process.

This is a fully onsite position in Lawrence,KS.

This position is anticipated to close on Dec 29, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $130,000 - $135,000