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.
Submit Your Resume
ABOUT SKYWATER SEARCH
Start with your Short List
Led by a group of seasoned search industry professionals, SkyWater Search Partners brings new focus to a novel concept, “Short List Search.” Our purpose is to leave a lasting impression on the clients we serve by providing individuals who will make a measurable difference in their business. We strive to consistently deliver great results to our clients in a very timely manner.
Practice Areas
Our practice areas are led by highly experienced executive recruiters who take great care in fully understanding client requirements and candidate qualifications.
• Accounting and Finance
• Information Technology
• Operations
• Engineering
• Sales
• Marketing
• Human Resources
• Legal
• Construction
• Supply Chain
• Consumer Package Goods (CPG)
Founded on long-standing relationships and hundreds of successful placements throughout the Twin Cities business community, SkyWater Search Partners is a proven resource for clients and candidates looking to quickly and confidently explore their “short list” of best choices. Count on us to find the best people – and the best fit.
