Mechanical Design Engineering Manager

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineering Manager
Location: St. Louis, MO

About Us:
At Align, we are leaders in designing and building autonomous vehicles and material handling solutions for heavy industry. With over 50 years of innovation and expertise, we deliver custom-engineered equipment for some of the most demanding applications. Headquartered in St. Louis, MO, with additional facilities in Decatur, IL, and a joint venture in Sweden, our team leverages advanced technologies like SolidWorks and PDM to design systems that enable heavy industry to achieve their growth objectives.

Our designs integrate steel structure, pneumatics, hydraulics, PLCs, and other electrical systems for advanced automation. We are passionate about fostering creativity, collaboration, and strategic vision to drive exceptional results. Join us as we shape the future of automation and material handling!

Job Summary:
 We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineering Manager to lead our dynamic, global design team. Reporting directly to the President, this key leadership role combines technical expertise, team development, and strategic planning to drive Align’s success. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in mechanical design, a lean management mindset, and the ability to build training programs to ensure a high-performing team.

In this role, you will manage engineering employees both in the U.S. and in foreign markets, oversee design initiatives, manage projects and customers, while contributing to Align’s long-term growth strategy. If you thrive on innovation and leadership, this opportunity is for you!

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Team Development: Manage, mentor, and inspire a team of mechanical design engineers, including remote teams in foreign markets. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and productive culture.
• Strategic Planning: Collaborate with the President and leadership team on strategic initiatives and align the engineering department’s goals with the company’s vision.
• Project Management: Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects, ensuring adherence to technical specifications, timelines, and budgets.
• Design and Innovation: Lead the development of new product designs and refine existing ones.  Innovation is the heartbeat of Align.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Manufacturing, Sales, and other departments to ensure designs meet customer needs and production feasibility.
• Training and Development: Develop and implement training programs to enhance team capabilities and ensure consistent application of best practices.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive initiatives to enhance product quality, reduce costs, and improve design processes while maintaining a lean management approach.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed project documentation and provide regular updates to senior leadership.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 7 years of experience in mechanical design with a focus on structural, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical automation systems.
• 3-5 years of management experience leading engineering teams, including remote or international teams.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) and file management systems like PDM.
• Strong understanding of materials, fabrication processes, and engineering standards.
• Proven track record of managing complex design projects and building high-performing teams.
• Demonstrated expertise in lean management practices and developing team training programs.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Why Join Us?

• Industry Leadership: Be part of a company recognized for its expertise in autonomous vehicle design and material handling for heavy industry.
• Global Impact: Manage engineering teams across the U.S. and international markets, contributing to projects with a global reach.
• Strategic Involvement: Work closely with the President and leadership to shape Align’s strategic direction.
• Performance-Based Bonuses: Eligible for our bi-annual bonus compensation plan tied to company performance.
• Competitive Benefits: Attractive salary, comprehensive health benefits, retirement plans, and more.