Head of Engineering – Manufacturing / Machine Tool Equipment

Job Title:

Location:

Department:

Reports To:

Industry:

Job Purpose

The Head of Engineering will lead and manage the complete engineering function across both product and project divisions. This role is responsible for delivering robust, cost-effective, and timely engineering solutions aligned with business goals. The position ensures coordination across teams, process efficiency, and high-quality output. The Design Managers for both divisions will report to this position.

Key Responsibilities

1. Engineering Strategy & Leadership

• Define and implement engineering strategies aligned with product roadmap and business growth plans.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance across both engineering teams.
• Ensure close coordination with Design Managers to streamline workloads and priorities.

2. Product Engineering Oversight

• Guide the design and standardization of chip conveyors, coolant filtration units, and chip processing systems for machine tools.
• Ensure modular, scalable, and cost-effective designs suitable for volume production and customization where needed.
• Promote continuous product improvement and value engineering.

3. Project Engineering Oversight

• Lead design and execution of centralized chip handling systems, chip processing systems, centralized coolant filtration systems, and stamping scrap conveyors.
• Ensure technical feasibility, compliance with customer specifications, and integration with site requirements.
• Support project teams in layout finalization, P&ID development, system calculations, and equipment selection.

4. Design Quality & Delivery

• Review and approve critical engineering deliverables including drawings, layouts, and BOMs.
• Ensure all outputs meet technical standards, customer expectations, and internal quality benchmarks.
• Track and report design cycle times, engineering productivity, and release schedules.

5. Cross-functional Coordination

• Collaborate with Sales, Projects, Operations, and Procurement to ensure timely and practical engineering support.
• Interface with customers and vendors for technical discussions, validations, and approvals.

6. Team Development & Resource Planning

• Mentor and develop a capable engineering team with strong product and application knowledge.
• Evaluate workloads, plan resources, and ensure timely support to both high-volume product orders and custom project solutions.
• Identify and address skill gaps through training and development initiatives.

7. Process & Innovation

• Drive adoption of design automation, CAD standards, and data management tools (e.g., SolidEdge, AutoCAD, PLM systems).
• Encourage innovation in design to reduce cost, improve performance, and shorten lead time.
• Support R&D and prototyping for new product introductions or enhancements.

Key Requirements

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (mandatory)
• Master’s Degree in Design/Engineering Management (preferred)

Experience:

• Minimum 15–18 years in mechanical design engineering, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role
• Proven experience in handling both standard machine tool products and large-scale engineered systems
• Domain knowledge of conveyors, chip handling, filtration systems, and fabrication design

Skills:

• Strong engineering fundamentals and system-level design experience
• Excellent leadership, mentoring, and team management capabilities
• Proficient in CAD tools (SolidEdge, AutoCAD, etc.) and design processes
• Good communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Strong project management and organizational skills

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Engineering release adherence (drawings/BOMs) to project timelines
• First-time-right designs and reduction in rework
• Engineering cost reduction through standardization and optimization
• Design cycle time for product and project orders
• Internal and external customer satisfaction
• Team development and retention