Engineering Director

About Us:

Gasser Chair is a renowned leader in the design and manufacturing of high-quality seating products. We pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence and innovation, creating custom seating solutions that combine style, comfort, and durability.

Position Overview:

The Director, Engineering will report directly to the Vice President, Manufacturing and oversee both the Engineering Manager and Quality Assurance Manager. This position is responsible for managing engineering and quality assurance activities across both PD1 and PD3 plants. The Director, Engineering will work closely with key members of the manufacturing leadership team, including the Plant Managers, Maintenance Manager, and Production Managers. This role also collaborates with the Supply Chain, Operations, and Quality Assurance teams to ensure engineering and quality solutions support efficient manufacturing processes, meet quality standards, and drive continuous improvement efforts.

The purpose of the Director, Engineering at Gasser Chair is to provide strategic leadership and direction to the engineering and quality assurance departments, ensuring the successful design, implementation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes. This role is responsible for driving innovation in production methodologies, optimizing plant equipment and layout, and ensuring engineering and quality solutions align with the company's strategic goals. The Director, Engineering will oversee the development of new products, enhancements to existing products, and initiatives to improve product manufacturability, quality, and cost-efficiency.

Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Management: Lead and manage the engineering and quality assurance teams, including the Engineering Manager and Quality Assurance Manager, ensuring that activities are aligned with production goals and company objectives. Provide coaching, mentoring, and professional development opportunities for staff.
2. Process and Product Development: Oversee the development and improvement of manufacturing processes, ensuring that designs and workflows optimize production efficiency, safety, and quality. Work closely with the New Product Development team to ensure that engineering solutions meet customer needs and manufacturing capabilities.
3. Project Management: Manage engineering projects from conception through execution, including equipment installations, process upgrades, and facility expansions. Ensure that projects are completed on time, within scope, and on budget while meeting safety and quality standards.
4. Quality Assurance Oversight: Lead the Quality Assurance team in maintaining and improving product quality standards. Collaborate with the Quality Assurance Manager to implement quality control systems, manage non-conformance issues, and drive corrective and preventive actions.
5. Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for continuous improvement within the manufacturing process, leveraging Lean Manufacturing principles and data analysis. Implement solutions that reduce waste, enhance productivity, and improve product quality.
6. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with Production, Quality Assurance, and Maintenance teams to troubleshoot manufacturing issues, develop solutions, and ensure smooth implementation of engineering changes. Work closely with the Supply Chain team to ensure engineering solutions align with material availability and lead times.
7. Budget Management: Develop and manage the engineering and quality assurance department's budget, ensuring optimal resource allocation for personnel, equipment, and technology investments. Monitor financial performance and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or safety.
8. Compliance and Safety: Ensure that all engineering designs and processes comply with safety regulations and company policies. Promote a culture of safety within the department and across manufacturing operations, conducting regular audits and risk assessments.
9. New Product Development: Work closely with the Product Development and Sales teams to introduce new products into production. Ensure that engineering and quality processes are designed to meet both manufacturing capabilities and customer expectations.
10. Performance Monitoring: Track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to engineering efficiency, product quality, and project completion. Provide regular updates to the VP, Manufacturing and other members of the leadership team.
11. Technology and Innovation: Stay abreast of new technologies, equipment, and industry best practices. Evaluate and implement new technologies that can improve manufacturing processes, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
12. Reporting: Prepare and present regular reports on engineering and quality assurance performance, challenges, and improvement initiatives to the VP, Manufacturing and other key stakeholders.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master's degree in Engineering or Business Administration is preferred.
2. Proven experience in an engineering leadership role, preferably in a manufacturing environment. Experience in the furniture, seating, or a related industry is highly desirable. Experience overseeing quality assurance teams is a plus.
3. Proven ability to lead and develop engineering and quality assurance teams, with strong management skills and experience in coaching and mentoring professionals.
4. Deep understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment design, and Lean Manufacturing principles. Experience in automation, robotics, advanced manufacturing technologies, and quality control systems is preferred.
5. Strong project management skills, with experience overseeing large-scale engineering and quality assurance projects from concept through completion.
6. Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on finding creative solutions to engineering and production challenges.
7. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and present complex engineering concepts to non-technical audiences.
8. Proficiency in CAD software, ERP systems, and data analysis tools. Knowledge of industry-specific engineering and production software is a plus.
9. Thorough knowledge of safety regulations, quality standards, and industry best practices related to engineering and manufacturing processes.

Physical Requirements:

The Director, Engineering at Gasser Chair will be expected to spend time in both office and manufacturing environments. This role requires the ability to move around the plant facilities, standing, walking, and climbing for extended periods. The Director must be able to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 lbs when necessary and work in various environmental conditions, including noise, heat, and cold. Regular use of a computer and other office equipment is required, as is occasional travel to industry events, vendor facilities, or other company locations.

Benefits:

401(k)

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Short-term disability

Long-term disability

Tuition reimbursement

Gasser Chair Company is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.

Gasser Chair Company complies with all laws and regulations related to verifying employment eligibility, and is an E-Verify employer.