Director, Manufacturing Engineering

Sonova; Kitchener; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A global healthcare company is seeking a Director of Manufacturing Engineering – Custom Products in Kitchener. The role involves leading a team to enhance processes and product solutions, overseeing product support, and driving innovation in manufacturing. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of engineering leadership experience, preferably in regulated industries, and a strong background in automation. This position offers a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for career development.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Variable bonus

Employer-matched pension

Wellness and paramedical benefits

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• 10+ years of engineering leadership experience in regulated industries.
• Strong background in automation or advanced manufacturing.
• Willingness to travel up to 20%.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a manufacturing engineering team.
• Drive improvements in safety, quality, delivery, and cost efficiency.
• Support new product introductions and post-launch optimization.

Skills

Engineering leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Project management

Education

Engineering or Science degree

Master’s degree

Tools

MS Office

SAP

MS Project

Job description

Overview

Director, Manufacturing Engineering – Custom Products

Location: Sonova Kitchener

As the Director of Manufacturing Engineering – Custom Products, you will lead a multidisciplinary team dedicated to delivering exceptional Process, Product, and Service Solutions that drive Sonova’s Core Value Drivers (CVDs). You will oversee engineering support for product families including In-the-Ear (ITE), custom molded products, and private label products, ensuring innovation, quality, and operational excellence.

This is a high-impact leadership role with responsibility for strategy, execution, and talent development, directly shaping how Sonova advances its manufacturing capabilities, technology adoption, and global operations performance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a manufacturing engineering team.
• Drive improvements in safety, quality, delivery, and cost efficiency.
• Support new product introductions (NPI) and post-launch optimization.
• Partner with R&D, Operations, and other teams to launch and scale products.
• Create and execute a multi-year improvement roadmap.
• Manage budgets and report progress to leadership.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

Qualifications

• Engineering or Science degree (Electrical/Mechanical preferred); Master’s is a plus.
• 10+ years of engineering leadership experience in regulated industries (medical devices, automotive, pharma).
• Strong background in automation, advanced manufacturing, or hearing devices is a plus.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office, SAP, MS Project.
• English required; German or French an asset.
• Willingness to travel up to 20%.

What We Offer

• Exciting leadership role in a global healthcare company.
• Hybrid work model with flexibility.
• Competitive salary, variable bonus, and employer-matched pension.
• Wellness and paramedical benefits.
• Career development, mentorship, and growth opportunities.
• A diverse, inclusive, and innovative work culture.
• Recognition as a Great Place to Work (May 2024–May 2025).

Only direct applications will be considered. If you receive a job offer without speaking to someone at Sonova, please contact [e-mail].