Mechanical Engineering Manager
Location: Kent, OH
Full Time | On Site
Saltera HR is supporting a highly respected manufacturing organization that designs and builds specialized dip molding and dip coating equipment used in advanced production environments. This role leads the mechanical engineering function with a focus on innovation, precision, and team development.
This role is right for someone who is energized by complex mechanical problem solving and growing the talent around them. Someone who enjoys being hands-on, present on the floor, working closely with production and quality teams, and guiding work from concept to completion with clarity and excellence.
About the Role
You will lead a team responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing custom machinery and automated systems. This work blends mechanical engineering fundamentals with material science, thermodynamics, and robotics. You will set direction, remove roadblocks, and coach engineers to deliver equipment that is reliable, efficient, and built to last.
What You Will Lead and Drive
Leadership and Team Development
• Lead, mentor, and support a team of mechanical engineers and technical professionals
• Create a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning
• Ensure the team has clarity of priorities, timelines, and expectations
Mechanical Design and Process Development
• Oversee the full design process for dip molding and coating equipment and related tooling
• Drive continuous improvement to increase throughput, reliability, and product quality
• Ensure designs align with industry standards, safety requirements, and customer specifications
Project Management
• Manage multiple engineering projects from concept through validation
• Forecast resources, track budgets, and maintain project timelines
• Collaborate closely with Production, R&D, Quality, and Operations to deliver aligned outcomes
Innovation and Technology Advancement
• Evaluate and introduce new technologies, materials, and manufacturing techniques
• Integrate robotics and material handling automation to modernize equipment capabilities
• Champion thoughtful risk-taking and practical experimentation
Client and Stakeholder Partnership
• Serve as a technical point of contact for internal leaders, suppliers, and customers
• Clearly communicate project status, design justification, and technical recommendations
What You Bring
• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering required
• Master’s in Mechanical Engineering strongly preferred
• 15 or more years in mechanical engineering roles, including leadership responsibility
• Deep proficiency in SolidWorks, including PDM Vault and Simulation
• Experience with dip molding and dip coating equipment is highly valuable
• Strong foundation in material science, metallurgy, and thermodynamics
• Proven experience integrating automation, robotics, and custom machinery
• Clear communication skills with the ability to coach, guide, and collaborate
Success in This Role Looks Like
• A high-performing engineering team that is aligned, confident, and growing
• Projects delivered on schedule, within scope, and with strong technical integrity
• Continuous improvement initiatives that show real efficiency and performance gains
• Strong cross-functional alignment and proactive communication
Work Environment
• Fully on-site, hands-on with equipment, prototypes, and testing
• Fast-paced and collaborative engineering and production environment
• Occasional travel for customer engagement or project support
EEO Statement
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds.