Director Engineering Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Peerless-AV is a leading designer and manufacturer of award-winning audio solutions for over 75 years.  Our AV solutions range from interactive kiosks, outdoor displays, video wall mounts and more.  You may not know Peerless-AV by name, but you have likely seen our products in malls, amusement parks, hotels, sport stadiums and/or different restaurant drive-thru.

• We are leading the industry by providing our customers with standard-setting product quality, service and value.
• We strive to create a fun work environment throughout the year, not just during the holiday seasons.  Employees look forward to our company parties with raffles, contests, lunch and laughs. 

Peerless-AV, a leading global designer and manufacturer of audiovisual solutions, is seeking an experienced and hands-on Director of Engineering to lead our Design Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Technical Illustration, and Engineering Regulatory Affairs teams.

This is a unique opportunity to oversee a highly cross-functional engineering organization developing products across three complementary industries:

• AV Mounting Solutions
• Kiosks
• Outdoor Displays

The Director of Engineering will provide strategic leadership and technical direction for all engineering initiatives, ensuring projects are executed efficiently, innovatively, and in alignment with company objectives. This highly visible role requires both long-term strategic thinking and the ability to personally engage in solving complex technical challenges.

The ideal candidate is a resourceful and driven engineering leader who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and is passionate about product development, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage Design Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Technical Illustration, and Regulatory Affairs functions.
• Direct engineering projects from concept through production, ensuring alignment with company goals, timelines, quality standards, and cost objectives.
• Develop and improve engineering processes, procedures, and cross-functional workflows.
• Collaborate closely with Product Management, Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and external suppliers throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Provide strategic insight into market trends, emerging technologies, and competitive positioning.
• Support manufacturing readiness through DFMA principles, process optimization, and production support.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory and certification requirements, including UL, FCC, and CE standards.
• Recruit, mentor, develop, and lead high-performing engineering teams.
• Promote a culture of accountability, innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Support and maintain Quality Management Systems (QMS) and Environmental Management Systems (EMS) initiatives and objectives.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering required; advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of hands-on product development engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 8+ years of engineering leadership and team management experience.
• Proven experience leading cross-functional teams through full product development cycles from concept to production.
• Strong knowledge of:
  • DFMA (Design for Manufacturing and Assembly)
  • FMEA (Failure Modes and Effects Analysis)
  • Engineering validation and testing methods
  • Regulatory compliance and certification processes
• Broad technical understanding of:
  • Heat transfer and thermodynamics
  • Statics and strength of materials
  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
  • Electrical systems, electronics, software, and firmware
• Experience with manufacturing processes including:
  • Sheet metal fabrication
  • Welding
  • Extrusion
  • Casting
  • Injection molding
  • Painting and assembly operations
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software; SolidWorks experience strongly preferred.
• Ability to create and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Strong project management, troubleshooting, and resource planning skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience with ISO-based quality systems and process development strongly preferred.
• Demonstrate Leadership & Commitment with respect to QMS & EMS processes & take accountability for effectiveness of these Systems.
• Establish, Communicate & maintain Quality & Environmental Policies & Objectives that are compatible with Strategic direction & Organizational Context. Promote Continual Improvement
• Communicating importance of effective QMS & EMS ensuring these systems achieve intended Goals. 
• Assure regular QMS & EMS Planning: (Org. Context, Interested Parties' needs & expectations, SWOT Analysis, ID Risks & Opportunities, EMS Aspects & Impacts, understand Compliance Obligations).
• Assure integration of QMS & EMS requirements into daily business Processes & availability of needed Resources to assure effective systems & their Continual Improvement.
• Other duties as assigned

Working Conditions

• Prolonged periods of desk and computer-based work.
• Occasional work within plant and warehouse environments where temperature, humidity, and dust levels may vary.
• Occasional bending, lifting, or moving materials weighing up to 30 lbs.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary.

We offer stability, competitive pay, plus outstanding benefits, including Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO health plan with eye and dental care, 401(k) with company match, paid vacation and a friendly, progressive work environment.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.