What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Product Engineering (Switchgears & PDU) position at Sterling Engineering?
Title: Director of Engineering
Location: Richmond, VA (Relocation Packages available for qualified candidates)
Compensation: $180,000-$200,000/year 20% Bonus Company Stock
Overview
We are seeking a hands-on, technically strong Director of Engineering to lead our Electrical and Mechanical Design teams focused on the development of low-voltage power distribution equipment (PDU) and switchgear systems for commercial and industrial applications.
This role will oversee a team of engineering leaders and drive the design, development, and delivery of innovative, cost-effective products from concept through production. The ideal candidate is a subject matter expert in low-voltage switchgear or power distribution systems and brings a balanced leadership style with the ability to stay close to the technical work.
This position is open due to an internal promotion and represents a key leadership opportunity within the organization. Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the Electrical and Mechanical Design Engineering functions, including 4 direct reports (2 Electrical Engineering Managers and 2 Mechanical Engineering Managers)
- Provide strategic direction and technical leadership for the design and development of low-voltage PDU and switchgear systems
- Remain hands-on in product design, architecture, and problem-solving, serving as a technical resource and mentor to engineering teams
- Partner cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Operations, and Product Management to ensure alignment from concept through production
- Drive design for manufacturability (DFM), cost optimization, and product scalability across all programs
- Establish and execute engineering objectives, roadmaps, and performance metrics aligned with business goals
- Lead design reviews and ensure projects meet timeline, cost, and quality targets
- Oversee the development, validation, and implementation of new products, including prototyping and production release
- Continuously improve engineering processes, tools, and systems (CAD, PDM, PLM) to enhance efficiency and output quality
- Build, develop, and retain a high-performing engineering organization, including succession planning and talent development
- Manage departmental budgets, resource allocation, and project prioritization
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field (Master’s or MBA preferred)
- 10 years of experience in engineering, with significant leadership experience managing design engineering teams
- Strong expertise in low-voltage switchgear, power distribution units (PDU), or similar electrical infrastructure products
- Background can be in either electrical or mechanical design, with demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary teams
- Proven ability to lead engineering teams through full product lifecycle (concept through production)
- Hands-on experience with product design and development in a manufacturing environment
- Strong understanding of design for manufacturability (DFM), cost reduction, and production processes
- Experience with CAD tools (e.g., Autodesk) and product data management systems (PDM/PLM)
- Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation and performance-based incentives
- Relocation assistance for qualified candidates
- Competitive stock package, RSU
- Unlimited PTO plan
- 401k Matching
- Great benefits, including Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage at good premiums.
- Growth Opportunities - former Director of Engineering promoted to the Global Team.
Salary : $180,000 - $200,000