Product Design Manager

Position Summary:
The Product Design Manager leads the engineering team responsible for the design, development, and improvement of our food processing equipment product lines. This leadership role bridges technical expertise with business acumen to transform innovative design concepts into standardized, scalable manufacturing solutions. Develop and deliver equipment solutions that meet customer needs while ensuring manufacturability, quality, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory compliance.

Duties & Responsibilities

Product Development & Engineering
• Lead a team of engineers & designers in developing new food processing equipment and enhancing existing product lines with a productization mindset
• Oversee the complete product development lifecycle from concept through design, prototyping, testing, and production release
• Translate engineering designs into repeatable, efficient manufacturing methodologies
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Develop and maintain product roadmaps aligned with market trends and customer needs
• Ensure designs comply with food safety standards, industry regulations, and sanitary design principles
• Create detailed product specifications, installation guides, and quality control processes

Leadership
• Supervise, train, and mentor team of mechanical engineers & designers
• Set clear objectives and performance standards for the engineering team
• Manage scheduled workload and promote a culture of innovation
Develop and manage team metrics
• Facilitate cross-collaboration with manufacturing, project management, and installation teams

Project Management
• Establish project schedules, budgets, and resource requirements for product development initiatives
• Track project progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies
• Ensure on-time delivery of engineering projects while maintaining company standards
• Coordinate with manufacturing teams to ensure smooth transition from design to production
• Develop & manage proposals for R&D products to bring to market

Technical Operations
• Develop and maintain engineering documentation including technical specifications, design standards, and test protocols
• Oversee prototype development, testing, and validation of new equipment
• Ensure product designs are optimized for production and manufacturing efficiency
• Partner with suppliers and vendors to source components and technologies
• Establish feedback loops with field teams to continuously improve solutions

Business Impact
• Contribute to strategic planning and business development initiatives
• Analyze market trends and competitive products to identify opportunities for innovation
• Develop cost estimates and financial justifications for new product initiatives
• Support sales and marketing teams in technical presentations and customer visits
• Gather feedback from stakeholders to drive continuous product improvements
• Stay current with industry trends and customer needs

Preferred Minimum Knowledge, Experience & Skills Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Manufacturing Engineering required
• 7+ years of engineering experience in food equipment or related manufacturing industry
• 3+ years of management experience leading engineering teams
• Knowledge of food safety standards and regulatory requirements
• Familiar with OSHA Standards for platform and conveying standards
• Proficient in 3D CAD software and file management (Inventor, Solidworks, Vault, ACC)
• Understanding of electrical systems, controls, and automation related to food processing equipment
• Experience with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems
• Strong technical project management experience
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to translate customer requirements into technical specifications
• Problem-solving mindset with analytical approach to design challenges
• Experience in developing and executing product roadmaps
• Ability to balance innovation with practical, cost-effective solutions

TWEET GAROT MECHANICAL, INC. IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER