Vice President of Engineering

Vice President of Engineering

Windings, Inc.

Minnesota or California

Salary Range: $180,000 - $230,000

POSITION SUMMARY:

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Vice President of Engineering (VPE) will lead the company's engineering function with a focus on innovation, execution, and strategic alignment. This executive will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our Engineer-to-Order (ETO) business, driving the design and development of custom electric motor solutions tailored to specific customer requirements.

WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS:

This is not just a technical leadership position, it's a strategic role central to the company's growth and innovation trajectory. We're seeking a visionary leader and impact player who can drive engineering excellence while aligning closely with customer needs and business objectives. We need a Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and a passion for driving results.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic Leadership:
• Provide strategic leadership and direction for all engineering activities, from concept through production, within an ETO manufacturing environment.
• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies to ensure the company remains at the forefront of innovation.
• Assist with defining a plan to establish a global presence in international markets
• Leadership and Management:
• Ensure engineering initiatives support the company's broader business goals, including cost, quality, and delivery targets.
• Champion product development best practices, fostering a culture of innovation, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Product Development:
• Drive the development of new products and enhancements to existing products, ensuring they meet market demands and quality standards.
• Collaborate closely with commercial and operations teams to bridge the gap between product design, development, and initial commercial qualification.
• Operational Excellence:
• Ensure the reliability, performance, and security of the company's technology infrastructure.
• Implement best practices for product development, project management, and quality assurance.
• Stakeholder Communication:
• Communicate technology strategy and progress to the executive team, board of directors, and other stakeholders.
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and in interactions with clients and partners.
• Budget and Resource Management:
• Manage the technology budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources to meet strategic objectives.
• Oversee vendor relationships and negotiate contracts to optimize technology investments.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Prior experience in a senior technology leadership role, preferably within the motor engineering or manufacturing sectors.
• Proven experience in a senior engineering leadership role, ideally within an ETO or custom manufacturing environment, along with an understanding of their applications in industries such as aerospace, defense, oil and gas, and energy systems.
• Possess the ability to think strategically and execute methodically. Has a demonstrated track record of successful product introductions and lives by the mantra of "yes, if" not "no, because."
• The ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring they are delivered on time and on budget.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a track record of driving innovation.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel; frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The employee is regularly required to stand and walk. Specific vision ability by this job includes close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Other Requirements:

Because employees in this position must handle information covered by the International Trade and Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR), successful applicants will be: (1) required to verify their identity and their status as a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or person granted refugee or asylee status (or equivalent) in the U.S.; OR (2) undergo additional steps, including but not limited to licensure from the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs at the U.S. Department of State and/or the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) at the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Windings is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected Veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment.