Director of Engineering

Skywater is seeking a Director of Engineering to lead a thermoforming and manufacturing engineering team with a mid-sized manufacturing organization in the North Chicago suburbs. This role requires deep expertise in thermoforming, CNC operations, and advanced manufacturing processes. The Director will drive new product development, lead engineering strategy, improve processes, and oversee a team of engineers and managers.

Responsibilities

• Lead a multi-disciplinary engineering team (5–7 employees, including managers) to achieve operational, quality, and technical goals.
• Drive new product development from concept through production launch.
• Implement and optimize manufacturing processes, procedures, and automation technologies.
• Oversee project timelines, engineering execution, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Lead continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives to increase efficiency and reduce waste.
• Analyze production data, troubleshoot complex technical issues, and drive corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, quality, safety, and 5S requirements while managing equipment, tooling, and CNC programming support.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• 10+ years of managerial experience in manufacturing engineering, including leading managers.
• Demonstrated expertise in thermoforming and CNC operations.
• Proven track record with lean manufacturing, process improvement, and project management.
• Strong communication, leadership, analytical problem-solving, and CAD/CAM proficiency.