Design Engineering Manager
Unist, Inc. (www.unist.com) is a world leader in the design and manufacture of fluid application systems for the industrial market. The consistent application of minimum quantities of lubricant saves money, improves process efficiency, and helps the environment by reducing waste. Over the past 65 years, Unist has built a worldwide reputation for innovative products, exceptional customer service, and long-lasting value.
Job Summary
The Design Engineering Manager leads, inspires, and manages Unist’s design engineering team, with responsibility for new product development, product improvement, and support of OEM and large end-user projects. This is a hands-on leadership role that drives engineering projects from concept through production while maintaining high standards for quality, accuracy, cost, and performance.
In addition to leading the team, this role contributes directly to design work and ensures accountability for results across all engineering initiatives. The right candidate is analytical, detail-oriented, and results-driven, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, identify and correct issues quickly, and make timely, well-reasoned decisions aligned with company objectives.
What would you do?
• Build, lead, and coach a capable and accountable design engineering team.
• Lead and control engineering projects from concept through production.
• Provide hands-on design leadership, technical direction, and problem-solving support.
• Drive new product development, iterative product improvements, and customer-specific engineering projects.
• Maintain appropriate engineering focus: 30% revolutionary product development, 30% iterative product improvement, 40% OEM and large end-user projects
• Establish clear work plans, priorities, responsibilities, timelines, and performance expectations.
• Review designs for accuracy, manufacturability, cost, quality, performance, and regulatory compliance.
• Ensure clean handoffs to Production for successful product launches.
• Maintain accuracy and consistency of 3D models, drawings, documentation, and Bills of Materials.
• Identify product performance, quality, and process issues and drive corrective actions.
• Create and maintain engineering processes, standards, documentation, and training materials.
• Collaborate closely with the President, Sales, Marketing, and Production teams.
• Stay current on relevant industry trends, technologies, and design improvements.
Do you have what it takes? You must be/have:
Leadership & Team Effectiveness
• Clear, direct, and factual communicator.
• Ability to delegate effectively while maintaining strong oversight and follow-through.
• Proven coach and mentor who supports team growth and performance.
Execution & Judgment
• Strong analytical and technical skills.
• Ability to make fast, thoughtful, and decisive decisions.
• Maintains high standards for quality, accuracy, structure, and execution.
• Highly organized, disciplined, and efficient with strong accountability.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and take full ownership from start to finish.
Mindset & Values
• Aligned with Unist’s core values and culture.
• Innovative, curious, and committed to continuous improvement.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field.
• 10+ years of team management experience with proven success.
• Demonstrated ability to lead engineering projects from concept through production.
• Strong design experience, including SolidWorks and machine design.
• Knowledge of machining and metal forming processes.
• Strong organizational, technical, and decision-making skills.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• ERP experience; Epicor preferred.
Interested?
If you’re excited to lead impactful engineering work and develop a high-performing team, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit a resume and brief cover letter to jobs@unist.com.
This position includes a competitive wage, bonus program, and great benefits including a 401(k) plan with company match, medical and dental insurance, short/long term disability, life insurance, paid time off, summer flex schedule, Wally Day, Give-Back Day, parental leave, education and training programs, company picnics and social activities, and a matching gift program.
Please note:
Unist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.