Design Engineering Manager

The Design Engineering Manager is responsible for managing the daily operations of the Design Engineering department to ensure the timely execution of projects alignment with company objectives and continuous improvement in productivity and efficiency. This role leads the development and refinement of mechanical designs for air moving equipment used across a range of industrial applications. Key responsibilities include overseeing the full design lifecycle from concept development through implementation while ensuring adherence to design standards modeling practices and engineering documentation requirements. The role also includes interpreting and validating Finite Element Analysis (FEA) results with the ability to perform FEA as needed. The Engineering Manager collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to support cohesive and on-time project delivery mentors and develops engineering staff enforces quality and design standards and contributes to lean process initiatives. This role may also involve performing hands-on design work to support team needs or address critical project requirements.

Responsibilities and Duties:

1. Department Leadership & Operations

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the design team ensuring timely execution of projects and alignment with company goals.
• Measure resource effectiveness and drive continuous improvements in productivity quality and efficiency.
• Maintain and allocate resources to meet fluctuating workload demands coordinating interdepartmentally as needed.

2. Project & Process Management

• Lead and oversee the design process from problem definition through commercialization.
• Drive LEAN initiatives to eliminate waste and streamline workflows.

3. Design Development

• Oversee the design and redesign of air moving equipment for industrial applications including chemical petrochemical HVAC power generation wastewater treatment mining and marine industries.
• Direct the development and updating of designs including modeling and detail standards.
• Review and validate FEA (Finite Element Analysis) results to ensure accuracy and alignment with physical principles material properties and design requirements.

4. Sales & Customer Support

• Serve as a technical spokesperson for design work with customers and sales representatives.
• Drive the design and commercialization of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) products.
• Assist in reviewing catalogs and marketing bulletins for technical accuracy.

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Act as a liaison between engineering sales purchasing and production teams to ensure cohesive project design execution and effective communication.

6. Industry Engagement

• Participate in industry groups such as ASHRAE AMCA/ANSI and ISO to stay current with relevant standards and best practices.

Qualifications and Required Skills:

• Bachelors degree in engineering or related field
• At least 5 years of experience in mechanical design and 3D modeling with some leadership or mentoring experience
• Proficient in 3D parametric design ideally SolidWorks with a focus on sheet metal design
• Experience in air movement or rotating machinery industries strongly preferred

Technical and Software Skills

• Strong mechanical design drafting and engineering change control knowledge
• Familiar with GD&T tolerance analysis and common manufacturing processes
• Experience with SolidWorks PDM or similar systems preferred
• Skilled in SolidWorks; FEA and AutoCAD preferred

Leadership and Interpersonal Skills

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
• Strong communication and technical writing skills
• Experience mentoring others and contributing to team development
• Self-motivated organized and adaptable with a focus on accuracy and results
• Willingness to support hands-on design work as needed