Job Description A leading provider of custom robotic automation systems is seeking an experienced and visionary
Director of Engineering to lead its multi-disciplinary engineering organization. This high-impact role will oversee Mechanical, Electrical, and Controls Engineering teams and drive alignment, innovation, and execution across complex automation programs. The Director will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for setting technical direction, developing talent, and ensuring engineering excellence from concept to project delivery.
Key Responsibilities: - Provide leadership and mentorship to engineering managers across Mechanical, Electrical, and Controls disciplines.
- Define and manage KPIs related to engineering performance, including quality, efficiency, innovation, and retention.
- Develop and maintain Individual Development Plans (IDPs) for direct reports, supporting succession planning and team growth.
- Champion a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and technical excellence.
- Oversee engineering execution from quoting to design release through project implementation for custom robotic automation solutions.
- Drive standardization of design practices, toolkits, and engineering platforms.
- Ensure adherence to design validation, technical reviews, and risk mitigation practices.
- Allocate engineering resources across multiple concurrent programs, balancing capacity and capability.
- Collaborate closely with Project Management, Sales, Applications, Production, and Supply Chain to ensure scope alignment, timely delivery, and customer satisfaction.
- Provide strategic input during concept development and feasibility reviews for new opportunities.
- Partner with Finance, HR, and Supply Chain to align budgets, hiring plans, and growth strategies.
- Represent the engineering function in executive meetings and strategic planning initiatives.
- Serve as the technical face of the Automation Division in customer interactions, design reviews, and presentations.
- Lead technical discussions with key supplier partners and evaluate emerging technologies in robotics, AI, vision systems, modular platforms, and industrial safety.
- Own the roadmap for engineering tools and infrastructure (e.g., CAD platforms, simulation tools, standards library).
- Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and client visits as needed.
Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering (Master's preferred).
- Minimum 15 years of experience in automation or robotics engineering, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
- Proven success leading cross-functional engineering teams in a custom machinery or robotic integration environment.
- Deep technical knowledge in robotic systems, PLC/HMI integration, mechanical design, safety systems, and electrical engineering.
- Familiarity with platforms such as Allen-Bradley, FANUC, Siemens, Omron, AutoCAD, and SolidWorks.
- Track record of developing engineering talent and improving project execution metrics.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and executive reporting skills.
- Willingness to travel up to 10%.
Preferred Traits: - Strategic thinker with a strong operational mindset
- Collaborative leadership style with the ability to align cross-functional teams
- Skilled communicator and persuasive presenter
- Comfortable navigating ambiguity and driving structured outcomes
- Naturally curious and committed to ongoing professional development