Director, Global Engineering

At Quaker Houghton, we make the essentials of everyday life possible and enable innovative approaches for a positive future. Our customers include the world’s most advanced and specialized automotive, steel, aluminum, aerospace, offshore, can and mining companies. Based in every corner of the world, our people are passionate about what we do.

About The Job As the Global Director Engineering, a senior leadership role responsible Engineer Center of Excellence. This position integrates technical insight, strategic leadership, and operational management to drive innovation and align global engineering initiatives with corporate objectives. The role demands stewardship of complex engineering systems, adherence to regulatory standards, and cultivation of a high-performance, collaborative culture.  

Key Responsibilities Global Engineering Strategy :
Develop and execute a comprehensive global engineering strategy that supports business growth, product development, and operational efficiency in multiple regions.

Leadership and Team Development :
Lead and mentor regional engineering teams, project managers, and technical specialists. Foster cross-functional collaboration, talent development, and knowledge sharing.

Project Portfolio Oversight :
Oversee major engineering programs, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality and compliance standards.

Process Excellence:
Standardize engineering processes, tools, and best practices across the network with a focus on key platforms. Platforms include esterification optimization, system standardization (PCL, MES), and other critical elements drive continuous improvements to better serve our customers.

Innovation and Technical Guidance :
Advise on complex engineering problems, emerging technologies, and new methodologies. Guide R&D and technical implementation to optimize chemical processes and product performance.

Compliance,Safety,andRiskManagement:
Ensure global adherence to environmental, health, safety, and regulatory standards. Lead risk assessments and mitigation strategies for engineering operations.

Stakeholder Engagement:
Collaborate with executive leadership, manufacturing, supply chain, and product teams to align engineering activities with corporate objectives, market demands, and customer needs.

Resource and Budget Management :
Manage the capital project process which includes all functions. Building a multi-year capital plan for critical platforms.

What do we offer?

Remote working arrangement for better work-life balance

Health insurance, pension plan and additional benefits

Holiday buy/sell program2 annual days of paid volunteering leaveQH University: continuous learning and leadership development opportunities

Strong focus on wellbeing, mental health, inclusion & DEIWhat are we looking for?

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical, Mechanical, or relevant Engineering field; advanced degrees (MS, MBA, or PhD) preferred. Professional licensing (PE or equivalent) a plus.

Experience:

Minimum 10–15 years of engineering leadership experience in the chemical industry or analogous sectors, including managing multi-site or international teams.

Technical Expertise:
Strong knowledge of chemical engineering processes, plant operations, process scaleup, and production technologies. Familiarity with automation, sustainability, and regulatory frameworks.

Leadership

Skills:

Proven ability to develop high-performing teams, provide mentorship, and drive organizational transformation.

Project Management:
Experience managing large-scale, cross-border projects with complex technical and regulatory requirements.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities:
Skilled at interpreting technical data, troubleshooting, and making data-driven decisions.

Global…