Director, Manufacturing Operations Engineering

Responsibilities

• Lead and align Product Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, and Quality Engineering functions across multiple sites in Mexico.
• Develop and execute engineering strategies to improve safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and cost.
• Drive operational excellence through automation, continuous improvement, and DF X methodologies.
• Oversee new product introduction (NPI) and industrialization from initial design through scalable production.
• Maintain and improve robust quality management systems focused on defect reduction and compliance.
• Partner with Operations, Supply Chain, and Commercial teams on capacity planning and capital investment.
• Build and mentor high-performing technical teams, fostering a culture of accountability and innovation.
• Utilize KPIs and operational metrics to drive data-driven decision-making and speed to market.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 15+ years of progressive engineering leadership experience in industrial manufacturing or engineered products.
• Proven track record leading product design and engineering teams within an operations-focused organization.
• Deep understanding of product development methodologies, manufacturing processes, and lean principles.
• Demonstrated experience transforming engineering teams into highly structured, standardized, and disciplined operations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or an MBA.
• Experience leading engineering functions across multiple manufacturing sites.
• Strong technical and analytical mindset with complex problem-solving abilities.
• Success in developing mid-level technical and leadership talent.
• Experience navigating turnaround situations and prioritizing strategic objectives.
• Familiarity with CAD systems, PLM tools, ERP integration, and stage-gate processes.
• Lean Product Development or Six Sigma certification.

About the Company

Watlow is a global leader in thermal technology and manufacturing. For over 100 years, we have provided world-class engineering through innovative thermal products and systems that drive customer success and improve lives worldwide. Our corporate values are to always do the right thing, learn and improve continuously, respect everyone, and lead with service and humility.