SUMMARY:

We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic Product Development & Manufacturing Engineering Manager to lead Lithion Battery’s engineering team. Reporting to the Vice President of Manufacturing Operations, this role oversees the full engineering lifecycle—from product conception and design through manufacturing and delivery—ensuring innovative, reliable, and cost-effective rechargeable custom battery solutions.
Leading the engineering department, you will provide exemplary leadership, technical oversight, and mentorship to a cross-functional team of engineers. You will drive new product development and customization, optimize manufacturing processes, implement engineering best practices, and ensure compliance within safety & industry standards. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with deep technical expertise, proven management experience, and the ability to align engineering execution with business objectives.

QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Manufacturing Engineering required.
• 10+ years of engineering experience with at least 5 years in a leadership/management role.
• Proven success in full-cycle product development and transition into scalable manufacturing.
• Strong technical expertise in mechanical systems, product design, and manufacturing methods (sheet metal, injection molding, welding, 3D printing, etc.).
• Experience in battery systems, energy storage, or related industries strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks) and familiarity with engineering simulation tools.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and scale high-performing engineering teams.
• Excellent project management, cross-functional collaboration, and communication skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Willingness to travel 10–20% as needed.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This role is conducted in both manufacturing and office environments, requiring some or all of the following:

• Prolonged periods of sitting and standing during workstation tasks and production floor oversight.
• Occasional repetitive tasks involving hand and wrist motions when handling prototypes or assemblies.
• Fine motor skills required for reviewing prototypes and engineering samples.
• Frequent reaching, grasping, pushing, or pulling of engineering and production materials.
• Capable of lifting and carrying battery components, tools, or assemblies weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Standing, bending, or kneeling to access equipment or perform inspections.
• Work in environments with varying temperatures, noise levels, and exposure to battery chemicals or related materials.
• Required to wear and properly use PPE (safety glasses, gloves, lab coats, etc.) per company safety protocols.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES:

• Lead and manage the engineering department, including product development, manufacturing engineering, and process engineering functions.
• Define and implement engineering strategy, goals, and performance metrics aligned with company objectives.
• Oversee full-cycle product development, from concept and design through prototyping, validation, and scaled production.
• Direct the creation and review of engineering specifications, CAD models, drawings, simulations (FEA/CFD), and test protocols.
• Partner with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and Program Management to ensure smooth transfer of products to production.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturability, quality, cost efficiency, and reliability.
• Manage supplier and vendor relationships to support product design and manufacturing needs.
• Ensure compliance with applicable industry regulations, safety standards, and design control processes.
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and career development opportunities to engineering staff.
• Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies to identify opportunities for innovation.
• Manage departmental budgets, staffing, and project schedules.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

This role is conducted in both manufacturing and office environments, requiring some or all of the following:

• Prolonged periods of sitting and standing during workstation tasks and production floor oversight.
• Occasional repetitive tasks involving hand and wrist motions when handling prototypes or assemblies.
• Fine motor skills required for reviewing prototypes and engineering samples.
• Frequent reaching, grasping, pushing, or pulling of engineering and production materials.
• Capable of lifting and carrying battery components, tools, or assemblies weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Standing, bending, or kneeling to access equipment or perform inspections.
• Work in environments with varying temperatures, noise levels, and exposure to battery chemicals or related materials.
• Required to wear and properly use PPE (safety glasses, gloves, lab coats, etc.) per company safety protocols