Mechanical Engineering Manager at Thermo-Vac in Oxford, MI

Apply Description We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead our engineering and design team while supporting the successful execution of manufacturing projects from concept through production. This role is responsible for overseeing engineering design, drafting, project execution, engineering standards, and continuous improvement activities that support quality, manufacturability, and on-time delivery. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and balancing technical leadership with day-to-day management responsibilities. This position plays a critical leadership role in supporting manufacturing success by ensuring engineering deliverables are accurate, efficient, and aligned with customer requirements, company standards, and operational objectives. Requirements Key Responsibilities: Lead, mentor, and develop the mechanical engineering, design, and detailing team while fostering a collaborative, accountable, and continuous improvement culture. Plan, prioritize, and assign engineering resources to support customer projects, production schedules, and company objectives. Oversee the creation, review, and approval of 3D models, fabrication drawings, assembly drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), work instructions, and engineering documentation. Ensure engineering drawings and documentation comply with company drafting standards, customer specifications, and manufacturing requirements. Collaborate closely with manufacturing, quality, purchasing, sales, and project management to ensure successful project execution and timely product delivery. Provide technical guidance on fabrication methods, manufacturability, material selection, welding, machining, forming, and assembly processes. Review customer drawings, specifications, and engineering requirements to ensure designs meet performance, manufacturability, and cost objectives. Develop and maintain engineering standards, CAD best practices, document control procedures, and design workflows. Manage engineering change requests (ECRs), engineering change orders (ECOs), and revision control processes. Support manufacturing by resolving production-related engineering issues and providing timely technical assistance on the shop floor. Drive continuous improvement initiatives that improve engineering efficiency, reduce errors, and streamline manufacturing processes. Coordinate reverse engineering activities, product improvements, and design modifications as required. Monitor engineering project schedules, workloads, and departmental performance metrics. Support capital equipment, tooling, fixture, and process improvement projects when required. Assist with customer meetings, technical reviews, and engineering support throughout project lifecycles. Ensure engineering data is accurately maintained within CAD, PDM, and ERP/MRP systems. Promote compliance with company safety policies, quality standards, and engineering best practices. Experience & Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline — preferred 7+ years of mechanical design and manufacturing engineering experience within a metal fabrication or manufacturing environment — required 3+ years of engineering leadership, supervisory, or project management experience — preferred Project Management certification — preferred Experience working with ERP/MRP systems, Epicor preferred Experience supporting defense, government, or highly regulated manufacturing environments — preferred Required Qualifications: Strong leadership skills with the ability to mentor, develop, and manage engineering personnel. Advanced proficiency with Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD. Strong understanding of sheet metal design, weldments, structural steel, and mechanical assemblies. Ability to interpret customer drawings, engineering specifications, and technical requirements. Thorough knowledge of manufacturing processes including laser cutting, forming, machining, welding, assembly, blasting, and finishing. Experience creating and reviewing complete fabrication drawing packages, BOMs, assembly drawings, and work instructions. Working knowledge of GD&T, welding symbols, and manufacturing tolerances. Experience managing engineering documentation, revision control, and CAD standards. Strong understanding of engineering workflows within shared CAD environments. Excellent organizational, project management, and problem-solving skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across all departments. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP software. Strong attention to detail with a commitment to engineering accuracy and operational excellence. Ability to balance multiple priorities while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Ability to pass a criminal background check, drug screening, and reference check. Preferred Qualifications: Extensive experience with Autodesk Inventor shared environments, Content Center, Vault, and CAD administration. Knowledge of ASME codes and engineering standards. Experience supporting ISO 9001 quality systems. Experience with military, defense, heavy equipment, or custom fabrication projects. Experience implementing engineering process improvements. Work Environment: This role is performed on-site and involves a combination of office and shop floor activities. The position requires regular interaction with engineering, manufacturing, quality, purchasing, and production personnel. Frequent collaboration with fabrication teams is expected to support manufacturing, troubleshoot production issues, and validate engineering designs. Exposure to noise, heat, and other typical manufacturing conditions may occur. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when working on the shop floor. Must be able to walk, stand, see, talk, hear, reach, and review engineering documentation and manufacturing processes as needed. Continuous improvement opportunities and professional development support Disclaimer: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Responsibilities may evolve based on business needs. Work Schedule: Status: Full-Time, On-Site – (Location: Oxford, MI) Standard Hours: 40–56 hours per week Schedule: Day shift Overtime: May be required based on workload Benefits: We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance: Health & Wellness Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Health Savings Account (HSA) Life Insurance Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Retirement & Financial Security 401(k) retirement plan with 4% company match Tuition reimbursement for approved education and training Allowances for safety shoes and prescription safety glasses Time Off Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy 9 paid holidays per year Company Culture Regular employee appreciation events Supportive, family-oriented work environment within a close-knit, small business setting Continuous improvement opportunities and professional development support