Director of Engineering – Contract Manufacturing

Company Overview

One of our core clients is a growing precision machining manufacturer serving complex aerospace, defense, and high-spec industrial customers. The company specializes in low-volume, high-mix CNC machining with a strong focus on quality, technical capability, and operational execution.

We are seeking a hands-on Director of Engineering to lead manufacturing engineering, CNC programming, process development, quoting support, and continuous improvement initiatives across the operation.

Position Summary

The Director of Engineering will oversee all engineering functions within the business, driving manufacturing excellence, technical execution, process standardization, and production scalability. This individual will work closely with operations, quality, sales, and executive leadership to improve throughput, reduce cost, support new business opportunities, and strengthen overall manufacturing capability.

This is a high-impact leadership role requiring both strategic thinking and hands-on technical expertise within a precision machining environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the manufacturing engineering and CNC programming team
• Drive process optimization, cycle time reduction, setup reduction, and tooling improvements
• Standardize manufacturing processes, documentation, and engineering workflows
• Oversee CNC programming strategy for multi-axis machining operations
• Support quoting and estimating activities by developing manufacturing plans and cost models
• Collaborate with operations leadership to improve throughput, utilization, and on-time delivery
• Implement lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the facility
• Evaluate capital equipment, automation, fixturing, and technology investments
• Support quality initiatives related to AS9100 compliance, root cause analysis, and corrective actions
• Partner with customers during technical reviews, DFM discussions, and new product introductions
• Establish KPIs and accountability metrics for engineering performance
• Mentor and develop technical talent within the organization

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field required
• 7+ years of engineering leadership experience within precision machining or aerospace manufacturing
• Strong background in CNC machining, tooling, fixturing, and manufacturing processests
• Deep understanding of low-volume, high-mix manufacturing operations
• Experience supporting aerospace or other highly regulated manufacturing environments
• Strong knowledge of GD&T, blueprint interpretation, and machining best practices
• Familiarity with ERP systems, CAD/CAM software, and manufacturing analytics
• Proven leadership experience managing engineering and technical teams
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

Preferred Experience

• High-precision component manufacturing experience - 5+ years
• Experience in AS9100 OR ISO 13485 environments preferred
• Experience within PE-backed or growth-oriented manufacturing businesses is a plus but not required