We are seeking a hands-on, strategic Engineering Manager to lead cross-functional teams within a custom manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for a leader who thrives in dynamic, project-based production, balancing people leadership, process discipline, and real-time problem solving.
You will oversee Project Management, Engineering/Design, Purchasing, Materials, and HR coordination, ensuring seamless execution from concept through delivery. Success in this role requires both operational leadership and a roll-up-your-sleeves mindset.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership & Execution
Lead and align Project Managers, Design Engineers, Purchasing, Materials, and HR to ensure efficient workflows and accountability
Own and enforce process discipline, ensuring teams receive proper inputs and deliver high-quality outputs
Audit workflows regularly; identify gaps, deviations, and opportunities for improvement
Act as the central “catch point” to ensure critical tasks are identified, tracked, and completed
Process Improvement & Continuous Development
Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all departments
Gather frontline feedback and implement practical, scalable process enhancements
Lead root cause analysis and corrective action planning for operational issues
Balance efficiency with usability, design processes that teams will consistently follow
Team Leadership & Mentorship
Mentor employees at all levels on decision-making, prioritization, communication, and problem-solving
Conduct performance reviews and support employee development
Foster a culture of accountability, respect, and continuous learning
Adapt leadership style to maximize individual and team performance
Hands-On Support & Resource Management
Step in to support critical workflows during peak demand, staffing gaps, or bottlenecks
Reallocate resources and rebalance workloads to maintain throughput and delivery timelines
Maintain visibility into daily operations and actively support execution when needed
Technical Oversight
Develop a working knowledge of all plant operations, including fabrication and production processes
Contribute meaningfully to cross-functional problem solving (design, welding, fixtures, quality issues, etc.)
Understand manufacturing fundamentals such as error-proofing, tooling, and fixture design
Build credibility with production teams through practical involvement and insight
Problem Solving & Decision Making
Apply structured thinking to understand root causes and “why” behind issues
Anticipate challenges and proactively develop solutions, even in unfamiliar scenarios
Guide Project Managers to fully understand scope, risks, and evolving project requirements
Use data and floor-level insight to identify trends and prevent future problems
Ensure decisions align with company priorities: quality, delivery, profitability, and culture
Planning & Strategy
Short- & Long-Term Planning
Forecast workload and resource needs (6+ months out)
Prepare for production surges, staffing changes, and operational risks
Ensure plans are in place to meet delivery timelines and financial targets
Strategic Growth
Collaborate with Production and Operations leadership on capacity planning and work distribution
Evaluate future business opportunities, OEM programs, and plant capabilities
Identify and lead expansion initiatives (new departments, equipment, or capabilities)
Support hiring pipelines, partnerships, and workforce development efforts
Qualifications
Required
Experience in a custom manufacturing, fabrication, or equipment environment
Demonstrated leadership experience across multiple functional teams
Strong understanding of project-based manufacturing operations
Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution
Preferred
Background in steel fabrication or heavy manufacturing
Experience with process improvement methodologies (Lean, continuous improvement, etc.)
Proven ability to manage changing priorities in a fast-paced environment
Key Traits for Success
Strong communicator with the ability to influence at all levels
High emotional intelligence; understands how to motivate and manage different personalities
Confident, resilient, and open to feedback
Proactive problem solver with a forward-thinking mindset
Strong work ethic and accountability for results
Technically curious with solid computer and systems skills
Benefits
Life Insurance
Vision Insurance
Paid Time Off
email resume to scott.slater@gogpac.com
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.
GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.
About the Company
G
Gpac
Gpac’s mission is to be the preferred staffing and recruitment solution by effectively delivering and connecting talent with successful companies and organizations.
Our team, with collective experience of over 250 years, is passionate about wh