Description

SCOPE: We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative Director of Engineering to lead our Research and Development (R&D) and Tool Room departments within our injection molding manufacturing facility. As the Director of Engineering, you will play a pivotal role in driving technological advancements, overseeing product development initiatives, and optimizing our tool room operations to enhance manufacturing efficiency and quality.

REPORTS TO: President

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Leadership and Strategy:

• Develop and execute strategic plans for the R&D and Tool Room departments aligned with the company's objectives and market demands.
• Provide visionary leadership to inspire and motivate the tool room team towards achieving excellence in innovation and operational efficiency.

Research and Development:

• Lead R&D projects by conceptualizing, designing, and implementing new products, processes, and technologies to meet customer requirements and industry standards.
• Drive continuous improvement efforts by conducting research, analyzing data, and staying abreast of emerging trends and technologies in injection molding and related industries.
• Compile worksheets and time studies of QREs (Qualified research expenses) for annual R&D tax credits.

Product Development:

• Head all new product development projects. Including proprietary and custom products. 
• Review and approve all mold designs and work in conjunction with our partnerships and overseas vendors
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, and quality assurance, to translate customer needs and market insights into innovative product designs.
• Oversee the development and testing of prototypes, ensuring adherence to design specifications, regulatory requirements, and quality standards.

Tool Room Management:

• Manage the Tool Room department to ensure timely and cost-effective production of high-quality molds, tooling, and fixtures to support manufacturing operations.
• Implement best practices for tool design, fabrication, maintenance, and repair, optimizing tooling lifecycle and minimizing downtime.

Technical Expertise:

• Provide technical guidance and support to engineering teams, resolving complex engineering challenges and addressing design issues throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Stay updated on advancements in injection molding technologies, materials, and processes, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence within the organization.

Team Development:

• Recruit, mentor, and develop talent, fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and continuous learning within the R&D and Tool Room departments.
• Conduct performance evaluations, provide constructive feedback, and identify training and development opportunities to enhance team capabilities and career growth.

Requirements

 QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Proven track record of leadership in engineering, with a minimum of 5 years of experience in R&D.
• Tool room management within the injection molding manufacturing industry is a plus.
• In-depth knowledge of injection molding processes, tooling design, materials selection, and product development methodologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to drive innovation and process improvements.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across functional teams and communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities, including strategic thinking, team building, and talent development.