Director of Sustaining Engineering (Rapid DNA)

Peskind Executive Search; Waltham (MA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment firm is seeking a Senior Manager/Director of Sustaining Engineering in Waltham, MA. This role requires extensive technical expertise in electro-mechanical systems and a strong leadership background. The candidate will lead a team focusing on product reliability, manage customer support processes, and drive continuous improvement initiatives while ensuring collaboration across functions. Applicants should have over 10 years of engineering experience with proven leadership skills.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of engineering experience, preferably with 5 years in leadership.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with quality assurance and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the sustaining engineering team.
• Develop strategies and processes aligned with company goals.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and monitor customer feedback.

Skills

Technical expertise in electro-mechanical engineering

Leadership and team management

Creative problem-solving

Strong communication skills

Project management

Ability to work independently

Education

Bachelor's or advanced degree in Engineering

Job description

Senior Manager/Director of Sustaining Engineering

Our client is seeking a Senior Manager/Director of Sustaining Engineering to maintain and improve their existing products. This role requires a player/coach attitude, ensuring product reliability, managing product support, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. It is a highly visible position, requiring strong technical acumen in electro‑mechanical engineering to support the products and rapid company growth. Success in this role demands technical expertise, a process‑driven approach, and the ability to work independently while providing regular updates to stakeholders.

Candidate Characteristics

1. Values‑Driven: Embodies the client’s team values and is committed to "doing the right thing."
2. Growth‑Oriented: Prioritizes rapid growth as a primary directive.
3. High Energy & Drive: Self‑motivated with a strong sense of urgency.
4. Creative Problem‑Solver: Seeks synergistic solutions that benefit both customers and the company.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership and Management

   • Lead and mentor the sustaining engineering team.
   • Develop and implement strategies and processes aligned with company goals.
   • Foster a collaborative culture through cross‑functional communication.

2. Product Maintenance and Improvement

   • Lead and support investigations into product issues.
   • Drive continuous improvement initiatives.
   • Collaborate with S&T and Manufacturing to support product changes and updates.

3. Contract Manufacturer Coordination

   • Act as the lead technical point of contact for all contract manufacturing.
   • Manage part change notifications, end‑of‑life processes, and other material supply issues.

4. Customer Support

   • Work closely with the field support team to address and resolve product‑related issues.
   • Lead customer communication efforts regarding product updates and improvements.
   • Monitor and analyze customer feedback to identify continuous improvement opportunities.

5. Project Management

   • Manage all sustaining engineering activities from planning to delivery.
   • Allocate resources effectively to meet deadlines and objectives.
   • Track and report on project progress.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's or advanced degree in Engineering or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 10+ years of engineering experience, with a preference for at least 5 years in a leadership position.
• Strong technical experience in electro‑mechanical systems, PCR, and CE is highly valued.
• Proven track record in a similar role.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with quality assurance and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.