Director of Engineering

Hanwha Aerospace USA; Cheshire (CT); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Hanwha Aerospace USA, based in Cheshire, CT, seeks a Director of Manufacturing Engineering to lead and optimize the manufacturing engineering teams across all sites. Focus areas include strategic planning, process improvement, and adoption of advanced technologies to support aerospace components and systems.

The role requires strong leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and a proven track record in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and enterprise-wide transformations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of manufacturing engineering experience in aerospace, with at least 5 years in leadership.
• Proven experience leading engineering organizations in a matrixed environment across multiple locations.
• Strong knowledge of lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent project management, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the manufacturing engineering teams across sites to drive manufacturing excellence.
• Develop and implement long-term manufacturing engineering strategies and modernization efforts.
• Identify, implement, and sustain process improvements to reduce costs and improve quality.
• Oversee cross-functional projects from conception to completion within timelines and budgets.
• Drive Industry 4.0 adoption (automation, IoT, data analytics) and technology integration.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality systems (AS9100), and company policies.
• Plan budgets and optimize resource allocation for engineering activities.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Leadership

Project management

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing/Mechanical/Aerospace/Industrial Engineering

Master's degree or MBA preferred

Tools

ERP

MES

Job description

Hanwha Aerospace USA has long been recognized as a leader in the development and supply of flight critical Aerospace/Defense components and assemblies. Operating out of four state-of-the-art facilities located in Connecticut, Hanwha Aerospace USA offers growth and career development opportunities to enrich your talents.

The Director of Manufacturing Engineering for Hanwha Aerospace USA is responsible for leading and managing the manufacturing engineering teams at all sites to ensure efficient, high-quality production processes. This role focuses on strategic planning, process improvement, and the implementation of advanced technologies to support the production of aerospace components and systems. The Director will work closely with other functional areas to drive manufacturing excellence and innovation.

Location: Based out of Cheshire, CT

Reports to: General Manager

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform.

Leadership and Management

• Lead and mentor the manufacturing engineering team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Provide coaching and leadership that supports engineers' professional development, establishes clear growth paths, promotes engagement, and builds a high-performing, collaborative organization.
• Set objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) for the team, and monitor progress against these goals.
• Lead and influence cross-functional and matrixed teams across multiple sites and functional disciplines to achieve strategic business and operational objectives.
• Ensure compliance with HAU policies and procedures.

Strategic Planning

• Develop and implement long-term strategies for manufacturing engineering to support company goals and growth.
• Evaluate and adopt new manufacturing technologies and methodologies.
• Align manufacturing engineering activities with the overall business strategy and customer requirements.
• Lead organizational transformation initiatives by driving the implementation, adoption, and stabilization of standardized manufacturing work processes and engineering best practices across all sites.
• Demonstrate adaptability and change leadership by successfully managing enterprise-wide initiatives and fostering organizational acceptance of new processes and ways of working.

Process Improvement

• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Lead lean manufacturing initiatives and Six Sigma projects to optimize production processes.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for production issues.

Project Management

• Oversee engineering projects from conception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and meet policies and procedures.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, production, quality, and supply chain, to ensure successful project execution.
• Manage the design and installation of new equipment and production lines.

Technology and Innovation

• Stay current with advancements in aerospace manufacturing technology and industry trends.
• Drive the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, including automation, IoT, and data analytics, to enhance manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with IT and other departments to integrate new technologies into existing systems.

Quality and Compliance

• Ensure all manufacturing processes comply with safety regulations, and company policies.
• Work closely with the quality assurance team to maintain high product quality and consistency.
• Implement and maintain AS9100 and other relevant aerospace certifications.

Budgeting and Resource Management

• Develop and manage the manufacturing engineering budget.
• Optimize resource allocation to ensure efficient use of personnel, equipment, and materials.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree or MBA is preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in manufacturing engineering within the aerospace industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Experience leading engineering organizations within a matrixed environment and successfully managing cross-functional teams across multiple locations or business functions.
• Proven experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong project management skills, with a track record of successfully leading engineering projects in the aerospace sector.
• In-depth knowledge of aerospace manufacturing processes, equipment, and technology.
• Demonstrated success leading organizational change, process standardization, or business transformation initiatives.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and team-building abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) certification.
• Experience with Industry 4.0 technologies and digital transformation in aerospace manufacturing.
• Knowledge of ERP and manufacturing execution systems (MES) used in aerospace.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based with frequent visits to manufacturing facilities.
• Occasional travel may be required, including visits to customer sites and industry events.

AAP Statement

Hanwha Aerospace USA, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, Sexual Orientation, and Gender Identity or Expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit Retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination.

Subject to change with or without notice