Product Development Engineering Manager

Hammerton is a vertically integrated manufacturer of high-end decorative lighting and custom fixtures. We’re looking for a hands-on Product Development Engineering Manager to lead both new product development and sustaining engineering. Reporting directly to the CEO, you’ll drive engineering strategy, deliver innovative, manufacturable products, and continuously improve our glass, metal, and assembly processes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and develop a high-performing team of product development and sustaining engineers, balancing new-product innovation with ongoing production support.
• Own the full product lifecycle, including phase-gate development from concept to launch and post-launch sustaining engineering, quality improvements, and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Collaborate with Design, Product Management, and Operations to translate aesthetic concepts into scalable, manufacturable products.
• Drive design-for-manufacturability (DFM), tooling strategies, and process improvements across vertically integrated operations.
• Oversee engineering of glass production equipment, including furnaces, glory holes, annealers, and automated mold systems, with a focus on automation and innovation.
• Lead research and development efforts for new materials, processes, and technologies.
• Manage supplier relationships, including international sourcing and development.
• Present project updates, risks, and strategic recommendations to the CEO and executive leadership team.
• Establish, implement, and continuously improve engineering standards, workflows, documentation, and key performance metrics.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 7–10 years of product development experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 3–5 years of engineering leadership or management experience (preferred).

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong proficiency in SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software.
• Extensive hands-on experience with manufacturing processes, including metal forming, machining, finishing, assembly, and production equipment/tooling.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical decision-making, DFM initiatives, and cross-functional teams.
• Experience with supplier development and international sourcing.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present effectively to executive leadership.
• Experience with glass-forming or glass production equipment is highly desirable.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds.
• Must be able to travel.

If you thrive at the intersection of technical depth, team leadership, and strategic impact - and want to build beautiful, high-quality lighting products that go from sketch to finished fixture under one roof - we would love to hear from you.

Apply today with your resume and a brief cover letter on why you're excited about this role at Hammerton.