Kensington Consulting Ltd
Job Title:
Director of R&D and Engineering
Location:
Michigan, USA
Salary:
$170k – $210k
The Director of R&D and Engineering plays a key leadership role in the design, innovation, and development of advanced CNC grinding machinery. This position is responsible for shaping the engineering culture, setting technical standards, and guiding projects from concept through post-assembly support. The role involves overseeing research and development initiatives, leading detailed design processes, and ensuring project execution aligns with customer needs, cost, and schedule requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Design & Development
- Lead the design and engineering of CNC grinding machines, including mechanical structures, spindles, linear guides, dressers, bearings, electrical systems, and software interfaces.
Innovation & R&D
- Drive new technology development to improve machine performance, thermal stability, vibration reduction, and tool life.
CAD & Simulation
- Oversee design modeling, assemblies, and bills of materials using SolidWorks. Perform and review simulations to confirm durability and system integrity.
Prototyping & Testing
- Supervise prototype builds, lead performance testing, and implement iterative design improvements.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Sales, Operations, vendors, and customers to ensure system integration and successful delivery.
Team Leadership & Mentorship
- Mentor and support junior engineers, review design output for accuracy and compliance, and foster a high-performance engineering culture.
Technical Support & Troubleshooting
- Provide technical guidance during machine assembly, commissioning, and field service, either on-site or remotely.
Continuous Improvement
- Lead efforts to enhance machine performance, reduce costs, and improve engineering workflows.
Travel
- Visit customer and supplier facilities as needed for design validation, vendor qualification, and technical support.
Required Knowledge & Skills
Strong proficiency in SolidWorks (3D modeling, assemblies, drawings, BOMs); working knowledge of AutoCAD 2D.
Deep understanding of engineering principles, machine systems, and manufacturing processes.
Hands-on expertise in grinding machine technology or precision equipment.
Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and design for manufacturability.
Strong project management skills, able to balance multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and professional business communications.
Excellent judgment, attention to detail, and advanced problem-solving skills.
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering preferred.
At least 8 years of experience in machine design, ideally focused on CNC grinding machinery or comparable high-precision systems.
Prior leadership or mentoring experience is strongly preferred.
Benefits
Relocation package
Company-matched 401(k)
Health, life, dental, and vision insurance from day one
Life & AD&D insurance
Flexible spending account
PTO
Bonus program
Wellness reimbursement
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Director of R&D and Engineering
Location:
Michigan, USA
Salary:
$170k – $210k
The Director of R&D and Engineering plays a key leadership role in the design, innovation, and development of advanced CNC grinding machinery. This position is responsible for shaping the engineering culture, setting technical standards, and guiding projects from concept through post-assembly support. The role involves overseeing research and development initiatives, leading detailed design processes, and ensuring project execution aligns with customer needs, cost, and schedule requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Design & Development
- Lead the design and engineering of CNC grinding machines, including mechanical structures, spindles, linear guides, dressers, bearings, electrical systems, and software interfaces.
Innovation & R&D
- Drive new technology development to improve machine performance, thermal stability, vibration reduction, and tool life.
CAD & Simulation
- Oversee design modeling, assemblies, and bills of materials using SolidWorks. Perform and review simulations to confirm durability and system integrity.
Prototyping & Testing
- Supervise prototype builds, lead performance testing, and implement iterative design improvements.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Sales, Operations, vendors, and customers to ensure system integration and successful delivery.
Team Leadership & Mentorship
- Mentor and support junior engineers, review design output for accuracy and compliance, and foster a high-performance engineering culture.
Technical Support & Troubleshooting
- Provide technical guidance during machine assembly, commissioning, and field service, either on-site or remotely.
Continuous Improvement
- Lead efforts to enhance machine performance, reduce costs, and improve engineering workflows.
Travel
- Visit customer and supplier facilities as needed for design validation, vendor qualification, and technical support.
Required Knowledge & Skills
Strong proficiency in SolidWorks (3D modeling, assemblies, drawings, BOMs); working knowledge of AutoCAD 2D.
Deep understanding of engineering principles, machine systems, and manufacturing processes.
Hands-on expertise in grinding machine technology or precision equipment.
Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and design for manufacturability.
Strong project management skills, able to balance multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and professional business communications.
Excellent judgment, attention to detail, and advanced problem-solving skills.
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering preferred.
At least 8 years of experience in machine design, ideally focused on CNC grinding machinery or comparable high-precision systems.
Prior leadership or mentoring experience is strongly preferred.
Benefits
Relocation package
Company-matched 401(k)
Health, life, dental, and vision insurance from day one
Life & AD&D insurance
Flexible spending account
PTO
Bonus program
Wellness reimbursement
#J-18808-Ljbffr