Head Of Design And Development

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead a team of mechanical engineers in designing and developing custom-built machines, ensuring all solutions are technically accurate, cost-effective, and optimized for manufacturability.
• Apply Low Cost Automation (LCA) principles throughout the design and development process to reduce material and production costs without sacrificing quality or performance.
• Ensure precise implementation of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) across all engineering drawings and documentation to maintain consistency and functional integrity during assembly.
• Maintain ISO standards throughout the design process.
• Design and integrate Pneumatic and Hydraulic systems with an understanding of component selection, system logic, and practical deployment in machine operation.
• Establish and maintain standardized design processes, including stage-gate reviews, peer validations, and error-proofing methods to reduce rework and ensure first-time-right” outcomes.
• Oversee the machine-building process from the release of design to assembly floor execution, including coordination with vendors, monitoring timelines, and managing mechanical validation trials.
• Mentor and develop team members through regular technical reviews, hands-on problem-solving guidance, and structured learning paths aligned with project and departmental needs.
• Collaborate closely with electrical, controls, and production teams to ensure seamless mechanical integration and operational reliability of delivered machines.
• Interface effectively with senior management by presenting status reports, design justifications, and project roadblocks with clarity and confidence, even when handling complex or politically sensitive discussions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in mechanical design, including at least 5 years in a technical leadership or departmental management role.
• Demonstrated success in designing and delivering special-purpose machinery, with complete ownership from concept through commissioning.
• Proficient in GD&T, Pneumatics, Hydraulics, and Low Cost Automation (LCA), with a track record of implementing these in real-world machine projects.
• In-depth understanding of machine building practices, manufacturing tolerances, structural rigidity, and ergonomic design.
• Hands-on experience with CAD platforms such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or equivalent, and working knowledge of PLM systems and BOM control.

Required Competencies

• Strong execution capability with the ability to lead complex projects under tight deadlines and changing requirements.
• Analytical and process-oriented problem solver, capable of identifying root causes and implementing robust technical fixes.
• Confident and composed communicator, especially adept at navigating difficult conversations and aligning cross-functional stakeholders.
• Proven ability to manage and motivate engineering teams, provide constructive feedback, and build a culture of technical rigor and accountability.
• Comfortable managing up, able to handle directives from challenging superiors without compromising team performance or morale