Director of Engineering
4 days ago
Director of Engineering - High-Speed Automation
Location: Buffalo Grove & Libertyville, IL
Type: Direct Hire | Onsite
Compensation: Up to $225K + Full Relocation Available
Are you ready to lead engineering operations at scale and shape the future of high-speed automation? We are seeking a Director of Engineering to oversee and grow our automation engineering teams across our Buffalo Grove and Libertyville facilities. This is a high-impact leadership role with visibility across the organization and with key clients in the medical device industry.
About the Role
Reporting directly to the Site General Manager, the Director of Engineering will lead a large, multidisciplinary engineering organization-overseeing 60 engineers, 120 technicians, and 9 managers-with responsibility for designing, building, and scaling high-speed automated assembly systems. You'll work closely with site leadership to expand existing lines, launch new lines, and support the startup of a brand-new plant in Libertyville.
This is a rare opportunity to influence strategy, build organizational capabilities, and partner with top medical device companies to deliver cutting-edge automation solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, mentor, and develop a large engineering team to deliver on automation and production goals.
- Drive the design, specification, installation, and support of high-speed automation equipment and tooling.
- Oversee commissioning, validation (IQ/OQ/PQ), and production support of automation systems.
- Partner with clients to navigate technical challenges, communicate vision, and ensure seamless execution.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver cost-effective, scalable, and compliant automation solutions.
- Guide strategic planning for automation initiatives and capacity expansions.
- Maintain alignment with FDA regulations, medical device quality standards, and organizational KPIs.
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or related Engineering field; Master's or MBA preferred.
- Strong background in high-speed automation, ideally from an automation integrator (OEM) environment.
- Experience in OT (controls/hardware) and exposure to SCADA systems is a plus.
- Demonstrated success in leading large engineering organizations with multiple layers of management.
- Experience supporting automation in FDA-regulated industries (Medical Device, Pharma, Food, Consumer).
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills - able to "see the forest through the trees."
- Excellent communication and leadership skills to influence teams, clients, and executives.
- Large company background and medical device assembly experience preferred.
- Competitive base salary up to $225K
- Full relocation support available
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
- Life, Short-term, and Long-term Disability insurance
- Matching 401(k) contributions
- Paid vacation and sick time
- Tuition reimbursement
Meet Your Recruiter
Ric Delgado
Lead Technical Recruiter
Ric Delgado is a seasoned Principal Recruiter primarily focusing on the Automation Division at Sterling. With a distinguished tenure of over five years at Sterling and an impressive career spanning more than a decade in the recruiting field, Ric is a respected and accomplished professional in talent acquisition.
As a Principal Recruiter, Ric draws upon his extensive experience to excel in the Automation Division. His in-depth understanding of this dynamic industry enables him to connect talented individuals with exciting and fulfilling job opportunities expertly. Ric plays a pivotal role in helping candidates find new positions, advance in their careers, and achieve their professional goals.
Ric's passion for positively impacting individuals' lives through career advancement is the driving force behind his dedication to recruitment. He takes immense pride in his role as a professional growth and development facilitator, understanding the pivotal role a career change can play in a person's life journey.
He firmly believes in continuously updating one's skills and knowledge to stay competitive in any field. His commitment to personal and professional development not only enhances his own expertise but also positions him as a valuable resource for candidates seeking guidance in their career journeys.
- 708-243-7086
- rdelgado@sterling-engineering.com
- Connect on LinkedIn
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.
As one of the most respected names in engineering staffing, Sterling has hundreds of opportunities with top employers. If you've got a friend or colleague seeking their next move in engineering, we could have their next opportunity. We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place. Submit referral now.
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