Design Engineering Supervisor

Supervisor of Design Engineering

The Supervisor of Design Engineering will be responsible for overseeing all product design engineering/validation of aftermarket/OEM pick-up truck bed covers and accessories, and related components. This role will focus on the organization and distribution of the workload amongst the Engineering team, to ensure the delivery of timely results that meet all expectations. Projects and work will include conceptual development all the way through start of production, as well as extensive private label and vehicle application engineering.

Core functions include supervising and mentoring other engineers, teaching Real Truck processes, best practices, and industry standards. Ensure team members follow best practices for design, Design for Manufacturing (DFM), DFMEA, and DVP&R procedures are followed. This includes support for all Continuous Improvement (i.e., cost savings) activities. Lead and motivate the team to achieve goals and objectives. Responsible for assigning projects and workload, setting and adjusting priorities based on changing direction, and tracking project hours.

Conduct performance reviews, manage employee conflict and concern, hold staff meetings and team building activities.

Review and approve 2D technical prints for quote or ECN (Engineering Change Notice) release. Approve product analysis and validation testing activities for existing and new products for commercial viability, durability, and functionality. Lead the design team to ensure that all goals set by the NPDs defining documents are being achieved and are on budget. Lead cross-functional program gate reviews to (ELT) executive leadership teams, communication achievements, open issues, risks, and recovery plans.

Approve internal engineering design reviews. Work closely with other technical roles (Industrial Design, CAD Designers, Electrical Engineers, and Manufacturing Engineers), to integrate mechanical design into larger systems. Work closely with manufacturing teams to address concerns like tooling, assembly processes, and overall manufacturability early in the design phase. Work with Quality teams to meet quality standard and produce defect-free products before production.

Assist in decision making by offering insights into technical trade-offs, costs, and resource requirements to non-technical stakeholders. Work with vendors/suppliers to understand materials, manufacturing constraints, and negotiate a balance of cost, quality, and delivery. Collaborate with and support the OEM Engineering projects regarding all new OEM programs. This includes arranging BOM content, evaluating added complexity, and finding the best solution, cost, and timing.

Lead and engage in trouble shooting with the team to develop options for success in complex situations.

Qualifications and requirements include a Bachelor of Science in Engineering is required. 4+ years of working as an OEM engineer or as an engineer supplying components to OEM customers. 5+ years of experience mentoring peers. 1-3 years of supervisory experience preferred. Strong understanding of supplier and customer PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) processes. Lean or similar continuous improvement knowledge and experience.

ERP or manufacturing software experience preferred.

Required skills include proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook). Skilled in CAD design. Skilled in Solid Works a plus. Strong interpersonal skills that create a positive and collaborative working relationship at all levels. Strong knowledge of CAD software and how to apply them to project applications. Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills, with the ability to skillfully present ideas/risks to technical or non-technical team members.

Ability to solve problems independently and resourcefully. Ability to prioritize and coordinate multiple activities to meet deadlines. Strong attention to detail, analytical skills and the ability to drive process improvements. Write, speak, and comprehend English. Ability to multi-task and function efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills with a focus on root cause analysis.

Travel will be project dependent, sporadic, and occasionally with short notice.

Competencies include synthesizing complex or diverse information; collecting and researching data; using intuition and experience to complement data; designing workflows and procedures. Working within approved budget; developing and implementing cost saving measures; contributing to profits and revenue; conserving organizational resources. Generating creative solutions; translating concepts and information into images; using feedback to modify designs; applying design principles; demonstrating attention to detail.

Focusing on solving conflict, not blaming; maintaining confidentiality; listening to others without interrupting; keeping emotions under control; remaining open to others' ideas and tries new things.…