Director, Engineering Project Management

We are seeking a Director, Engineering Project Management for our Systems Business in Irvine, CA to lead the strategy, structure, staffing, governance, and execution of cross-functional initiatives-including the Product Development Process (PDP) and Quality Improvement-within MKS' matrixed organization. This role partners closely with senior leadership, internal and external stakeholders, and customers to deliver business-critical outcomes while strengthening project management capabilities and driving continuous improvement across the organization.You will make an impact by:* Lead and develop a high-performing Project Management organization by fostering a strong culture, building talent, and coaching teams to perform at their best.* Drive execution of complex, cross-functional initiatives, ensuring alignment with business goals and consistent delivery against scope, schedule, cost, and quality targets.* Scale and enhance the Product Development Process (PDP) through clear standards, governance, and best practices that enable efficient, repeatable execution across global teams.* Implement project management tools, methodologies, and operating rhythms that improve planning, visibility, and decision-making.* Partner with senior leaders and cross-functional teams; both in Irvine and across global MKS locations to align on priorities and objectives.* Lead customer-facing execution by proactively managing risk and driving successful outcomes for complex initiatives.Skills You Bring:* Education & Technical Foundation: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field required; advanced technical degree preferred. Equivalent experience will be considered. Project management certification (e.g., PMP) is a plus.* Executive Leadership & Organizational Impact: Proven high-level leadership delivering results through teams; ability to build and develop talent, influence across a matrixed organization, and partner effectively with senior leaders to drive alignment and decisions.* Experience in High-Tempo Environments: 15+ years of experience in fast-paced, technically complex environments (e.g., product development, manufacturing, or R&D), with a track record of delivering complex, cross-functional initiatives.* Product Development & Technical Domain Experience: Experience with product development for complex systems or capital equipment; background in optics, lasers, photonics, or related technologies is a plus.* Transformation & Operational Excellence: Proven ability to improve processes, establish scalable ways of working, and implement governance that enables consistent, efficient execution.* Execution, Influence & Customer Engagement: Strong communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to align stakeholders, lead global teams, manage risk, and engage directly with customers.Physical Demands and Working Conditions: