Head of Engineering – Mechanical & Manufacturing

Greater Central Michigan Region (Onsite | Relocation Supported)

Company Overview:

Founded by a Veteran and machinist making parts out of his garage in the 1950’s, the company has now grown to over 8-figure annual revenues and continues to serve the aerospace, farm, large truck, auto, and defense industries.

What You’ll Own:

• Lead and develop a team of ~8 engineers and designers, setting the standard for performance and accountability
• Drive design and development of complex mechanical systems, including:
• Custom industrial machinery
• Precision tooling, fixtures, and equipment
• Specialized gear cutting and manufacturing solutions
• Stay hands-on in SolidWorks—reviewing, designing, and solving real engineering problems
• Provide engineering leadership on the manufacturing floor—solving problems in real time
• Own technical decision-making across projects from concept through production
• Act as a key technical interface with customers—translating needs into engineered solutions
• Partner with production, sales, and project teams to ensure execution aligns with business goals
• Elevate engineering processes, systems, and output quality
• Mentor and level up junior engineers, building long-term bench strength
• Travel occasionally for customer engagement and site support

Environment & Tools:

• SolidWorks (core design platform)
• Manufacturing ERP systems
• Microsoft Office (Excel, Project, Outlook)
• A true engineering/manufacturing environment—split between office and shop floor

Compensation & Perks:

• Base salary: $120-$140K/yr + performance-based bonus
• Overtime eligibility tied to project demand
• Full benefits package:
• Medical, dental, vision
• 401(k) with company match
• PTO + paid holidays
• Relocation support available
• Direct influence on engineering direction and operations
• Opportunity to step into leadership without leaving hands-on engineering behind

Requirements:

• 7–12+ years in mechanical engineering within manufacturing or industrial environments
• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology
• Proven leadership experience (team lead, project lead, mentorship)
• Strong expertise in mechanical design of machinery, tooling, or industrial equipment
• Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks (required)
• Strong command of GD&T
• Deep understanding of machining and manufacturing processes (CNC, grinding, tooling)
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and solve complex production challenges
• Strong mathematical foundation (including trigonometry)
• Ability to lead, train, and hold a team accountable

Preferred Experience:

• Exposure to tool manufacturing
• ISO 9001 or quality systems experience
• Background in precision machining or grinding environments
• Customer-facing or technical sales collaboration
• Experience helping scale or mature an engineering team

Additional Details:

• This is an onsite leadership role requiring regular presence in both office and production environments
• Not a remote position
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this role

If you’re looking for a strong leadership role reporting directly to executive leadership while still maintaining skills in hands-on engineering – we welcome your application!