Design Engineering Manager

Sterling Engineering is partnering with a well-established manufacturing organization to identify a Design Engineering Manager to lead a multi-site engineering team. This is a high-impact leadership role focused on strengthening team engagement, driving technical excellence, and improving design and development processes across multiple locations.

Responsibilities:

• Lead, manage, and provide hands-on support to a large engineering team across multiple states in the Midwest
• Provide strong, visible leadership with a focus on team engagement, accountability, and performance
• Drive technical direction across product design, tooling, and machine design initiatives
• Increase visibility and support across remote teams to ensure alignment and consistency
• Partner cross-functionally with operations, quality, and leadership teams
• Troubleshoot complex design and engineering challenges and drive continuous improvement
• Establish and improve design processes, standards, and best practices
• Travel regularly to support team collaboration, performance, and project execution

Qualifications:

• 10+ years of engineering experience with a strong background in design and troubleshooting
• Proven leadership experience managing engineering teams (multi-site experience preferred)
• Strong managerial skills with the ability to lead, develop, and engage teams across locations
• Expertise in SolidWorks and mechanical design of products, tooling, or machinery
• Experience with packaging design, preferably within thermoforming, is highly preferred
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to drive technical solutions
• Experience in the medical device or food industry design is a plus
• Willingness to travel 25–30%

Pay range and compensation package

• Compensation: $170k-$200k
• Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, PTO, Holiday Pay, Retirement, Life Insurance, and many more….