Head of Engineering $170-210k plus bonus

Head of Engineering$170-210k plus bonusFarmers Branch, TXOur client is seeking a seasoned Head of Engineering to lead and scale their engineering organization within a high-growth contract manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for driving technical excellence, operational efficiency, and innovation across all engineering functions, including NPI, process engineering, test engineering, and continuous improvement.The ideal candidate brings a strong balance of strategic leadership and hands-on execution, with deep experience in electronics manufacturing services (EMS) or complex contract manufacturing environments. Experience in component manufacturing or upstream supply chain engineering will be viewed as a strong differentiator, particularly in environments requiring tighter integration between component sourcing, design, and production.ResponsibilitiesStrategic LeadershipLead and develop the engineering organization, aligning technical capabilities with business growth objectivesEstablish and execute engineering strategy to support customer acquisition, retention, and program scalabilityPartner with executive leadership to drive operational performance and long-term planningNew Product Introduction (NPI)Oversee end-to-end NPI processes, ensuring seamless transition from design to productionCollaborate with customers and cross-functional teams to optimize design for manufacturability (DFM) and testability (DFT)Ensure on-time, high-quality product launchesManufacturing & Process EngineeringDrive continuous improvement initiatives across production processes, focusing on yield, efficiency, and cost reductionImplement lean manufacturing principles and best practicesOptimize equipment, tooling, and automation strategiesTest EngineeringDevelop and enhance robust test strategies to ensure product quality and reliabilityOversee design and deployment of functional, in-circuit, and system-level testingCustomer & Partner EngagementServe as a senior technical liaison for key clients, building trust and long-term partnershipsSupport business development efforts by providing technical insight and solutionsLead engineering reviews and customer-facing presentationsTeam DevelopmentRecruit, mentor, and retain high-performing engineering talentFoster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learningEstablish clear performance metrics and development pathwaysCompliance & QualityEnsure adherence to industry standards (ISO, IPC, regulatory requirements)Partner with Quality and Operations teams to maintain best-in-class product standardsRequirementsBachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or related field); advanced degree preferred10+ years of progressive engineering leadership experience in EMS or contract manufacturingProven success leading NPI, process engineering, and test engineering teamsStrong knowledge of PCB assembly, box build, and system integrationExperience in component manufacturing, semiconductor, or related upstream production environments is highly desirable and will be considered a key differentiatorExperience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologiesDemonstrated ability to scale engineering operations in a growth environmentExcellent communication and executive presence, with experience engaging directly with clients and stakeholdersStrategic thinking with operational disciplineHigh emotional intelligence and leadership maturityCustomer-focused mindset with strong relationship management skillsData-driven decision makingAbility to balance speed, quality, and cost in a dynamic environmentBETTER TALENT. BETTER OPPORTUNITY. FIND IT HERE. Bellsearchfirm.comBell & Associates, Inc. is a recognized Executive Recruiting & Staffing leader based in Kansas City. We focus and specialize in the following practice areas - Accounting/Finance, Engineering, Executive Leadership, Financial Institutions, Healthcare, Human Resources, Information Technology, Manufacturing/Operations Management. We provide top talent to our clients on a Direct Hire, Contract, and Contract-to-Hire basis.