Design Engineering Manager

Sterling Engineering

Janesville, WI

Sterling Engineering is partnering with a well-established manufacturing organization to identify a Design Engineering Manager to lead a multi-site engineering team. This is a high-impact leadership role focused on strengthening team engagement, driving technical excellence, and improving design and development processes across multiple locations.

Responsibilities:

Lead, manage, and provide hands-on support to a large engineering team across multiple states in the Midwest
Provide strong, visible leadership with a focus on team engagement, accountability, and performance
Drive technical direction across product design, tooling, and machine design initiatives
Increase visibility and support across remote teams to ensure alignment and consistency
Partner cross-functionally with operations, quality, and leadership teams
Troubleshoot complex design and engineering challenges and drive continuous improvement
Establish and improve design processes, standards, and best practices
Travel regularly to support team collaboration, performance, and project execution

Qualifications:

10+ years of engineering experience with a strong background in design and troubleshooting
Proven leadership experience managing engineering teams (multi-site experience preferred)
Strong managerial skills with the ability to lead, develop, and engage teams across locations
Expertise in SolidWorks and mechanical design of products, tooling, or machinery
Experience with packaging design, preferably within thermoforming, is highly preferred
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to drive technical solutions
Experience in the medical device or food industry design is a plus
Willingness to travel 25–30%

Pay range and compensation package