Lead Engineer

Role Overview

The Lead Engineer is responsible for leading and coordinating the daily activities of the engineering department. This role ensures the successful execution of engineering projects through effective oversight of design work, project management, quality control, and technical problem-solving. This position is assigned to Air Rover, a member of the Western Protective Solutions family located in Tyler, Texas and will report to the General Manager.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day leadership, technical guidance, and oversight for engineers and CAD technicians.
• Manage engineering project schedules, deliverables, and timelines to ensure on-time, high-quality results.
• Review and approve engineering drawings, models, and documentation for accuracy, manufacturability, and compliance with specifications.
• Oversee quality control (QC) of all engineering outputs, ensuring alignment with company standards and customer requirements.
• Utilize SolidWorks and related CAD/CAE software for design development, modeling, and analysis.
• Collaborate with Sales, Operations, and Production to support product design, improvement, and manufacturing readiness.
• Select appropriate design concepts, materials, and processes for new and existing products.
• Resolve complex technical and design issues, providing hands-on engineering support as needed.
• Monitor project progress, budgets, and resource allocation; communicate status, risks, and mitigation strategies to Operations Management.
• Ensure all designs and documentation comply with applicable codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date Bills of Material (BOMs) and documentation control.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in design practices, documentation, and workflow efficiency.
• Support Manufacturing and Quality functions with technical input, root cause analysis, and design-for-manufacturing solutions.
• Mentor and develop engineering staff to strengthen technical capability and teamwork.
• Identify engineering requirements and technology needs to support new product development and emerging market opportunities.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment.
• Review and approve employee hours worked and/or leave taken. Approve timecards on a biweekly basis
• Liaise with HR (Human Resources) to address employee issues regarding resolution and escalation in a timely manner.
• Perform other engineering-related duties as assigned.

Key Attributes

• Proactively identifies priorities, organizes tasks, and drives projects to completion.
• Able to succinctly convey information, from organizational goals to specific tasks, effectively to all levels of the organization.
• Proficient listener who understands input from others and integrates feedback into decision-making.
• Responds effectively and pivots as needed in response to changes within the industry or organization.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to quickly assess issues and determine practical solutions.
• Develops strategies to approach tasks, plans actions to accomplish goals, and delegates effectively while balancing short-term solutions with long-term objectives.
• Builds credibility and fosters confidence across all levels of the organization through integrity, consistency, and technical competence.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds at times
• Engaging in repetitive movements of wrists, hands, and fingers – typing and/or writing
• Working frequently at close visual range (i.e., preparing and analyzing data and figures, transcription, computer terminal, extensive reading)

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (required).
• 5 years of experience in product design, mechanical systems, or related engineering roles.
• 2 years of experience leading or coordinating engineering projects or teams.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and other CAD/CAE design tools.
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, manufacturing processes, and material selection.
• Experience managing engineering projects from concept through production release.
• Working knowledge of applicable industry codes, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrated experience with document control, BOM management, and configuration management processes. Proficient in design and calculation software.

Due to the nature of its operations, including certain federal government contracts, Western Protective Solutions must track -- and in some cases limit employment opportunity based on -- citizenship or immigration status.

Salary : $95,000 - $110,000