Performance Engineering Manager Jobs in California

The Engineering Manager is responsible for leading the technical direction, engineering activities, and process optimization initiatives within a manufacturing site. This role combines strong leadership with deep technical expertise to ensure engineering excellence, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement. The Engineering Manager partners closely with Operations to support production goals while building technical capability across the organization.

• Define and execute the technical strategy aligned with site and organizational objectives.
• Provide hands-on technical leadership to resolve complex engineering and production challenges.
• Drive process improvements to enhance safety, quality, throughput, and cost performance.
• Oversee design, development, and implementation of manufacturing processes, equipment, and tooling.
• Ensure engineering standards, best practices, and documentation are established and maintained.
• Collaborate with Site Operations Leadership to align engineering priorities with production needs.
• Support capital projects, including planning, budgeting, execution, and validation.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for critical failures or recurring issues.
• Foster a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and technical excellence.
• Mentor and develop engineering talent; drive performance management and succession planning.
• Maintain a strong understanding of site manufacturing processes and technologies.
• Identify and implement new technologies, materials, and methods to advance site capabilities.
• Partner with engineering, R&D, and other sites to share best practices and drive standardization.

• Bachelor’s degree (BS) in Engineering (, Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or related field required); Master’s degree preferred
• 8–12+ years of engineering experience, with demonstrated leadership responsibility
• Proven experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably high-volume operations
• Strong technical expertise in mechanical systems, manufacturing processes, and equipment design
• Experience leading engineering teams or projects with cross-functional impact
• Demonstrated ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution
• Solid understanding of continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma)
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills
• Prior experience in an Engineering Manager, Technical Lead, or similar leadership role
• Experience with capital project management and equipment implementation
• Knowledge of reliability engineering, maintenance strategies, and process optimization
• Experience in a Batch Chemical Manufacturing Industry preferred
• Familiarity with CAD, simulation tools, and manufacturing systems (ERP/MES)
• Experience working in multi-site or matrixed organizations
• Occasional travel to other sites  as needed

We understand that not all candidates may meet the requirements listed above. If you believe you have the knowledge and experience necessary to excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.  

Challenge Yourself and Impact the Future - You will be part of a highly collaborative culture that promotes continuous improvement through cross-functional partnerships to achieve our mission. We do this through a strong and unified culture and transparent management, which has empowered us to create high-performing global teams that achieve superior solutions for our customers. 
 

As part of the MAES Team, you will have ...

Opportunities for career growth, competitive compensation (competitive base salary and performance-related bonus plan), and benefits packages (health, dental, and vision insurance, Wellness Program, PTO/Holidays, as well as a 401(k)-retirement plan with a company match).
Innovative work environment where you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative team.
Perks and incentives include paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and opportunities for professional development.

The typical base salary range for this position is between $128,363.00 and $192,954.00