Head of Engineering – Manufacturing

Job Title:
Head of Engineering

Location:
Hubli

Department:
Engineering

Reports To:
Assistant Vice President

Industry:
Manufacturing / Machine Tool Equipment

Job Purpose

The Head of Engineering will lead and manage the complete engineering function across both product and project divisions. This role is responsible for delivering robust, cost-effective, and timely engineering solutions aligned with business goals. The position ensures coordination across teams, process efficiency, and high-quality output. The Design Managers for both divisions will report to this position.

Key Responsibilities

1. Engineering Strategy & Leadership

• Define and implement engineering strategies aligned with product roadmap and business growth plans.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance across both engineering teams.
• Ensure close coordination with Design Managers to streamline workloads and priorities.

2. Product Engineering Oversight

• Guide the design and standardization of chip conveyors, coolant filtration units, and chip processing systems for machine tools.
• Ensure modular, scalable, and cost-effective designs suitable for volume production and customization where needed.
• Promote continuous product improvement and value engineering.

3. Project Engineering Oversight

• Lead design and execution of centralized chip handling systems, chip processing systems, centralized coolant filtration systems, and stamping scrap conveyors.
• Ensure technical feasibility, compliance with customer specifications, and integration with site requirements.
• Support project teams in layout finalization, P&ID development, system calculations, and equipment selection.

4. Design Quality & Delivery

• Review and approve critical engineering deliverables including drawings, layouts, and BOMs.
• Ensure all outputs meet technical standards, customer expectations, and internal quality benchmarks.
• Track and report design cycle times, engineering productivity, and release schedules.

5. Cross-functional Coordination

• Collaborate with Sales, Projects, Operations, and Procurement to ensure timely and practical engineering support.
• Interface with customers and vendors for technical discussions, validations, and approvals.

6. Team Development & Resource Planning

• Mentor and develop a capable engineering team with strong product and application knowledge.
• Evaluate workloads, plan resources, and ensure timely support to both high-volume product orders and custom project solutions.
• Identify and address skill gaps through training and development initiatives.

7. Process & Innovation

• Drive adoption of design automation, CAD standards, and data management tools (e.g., SolidEdge, AutoCAD, PLM systems).
• Encourage innovation in design to reduce cost, improve performance, and shorten lead time.
• Support R&D and prototyping for new product introductions or enhancements.

Key Requirements

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering (mandatory)
• Master's Degree in Design/Engineering Management (preferred)

Experience:

• Minimum 15–18 years in mechanical design engineering, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role
• Proven experience in handling both standard machine tool products and large-scale engineered systems
• Domain knowledge of conveyors, chip handling, filtration systems, and fabrication design

Skills:

• Strong engineering fundamentals and system-level design experience
• Excellent leadership, mentoring, and team management capabilities
• Proficient in CAD tools (SolidEdge, AutoCAD, etc.) and design processes
• Good communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Strong project management and organizational skills

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Engineering release adherence (drawings/BOMs) to project timelines
• First-time-right designs and reduction in rework
• Engineering cost reduction through standardization and optimization
• Design cycle time for product and project orders
• Internal and external customer satisfaction
• Team development and retention