Jobs and Careers
RE
Senior Engineering Manager
RealTruckAnn Arbor, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 7 May 2026
About the role
POSITION SUMMARY
The Sr. Engineering Manager has responsibility for all engineering functions related to product design for NPI, OEM’s and continuous improvement for two bed cover manufacturing plants in Missouri. This position will oversee a staff of managers, design engineers and engineering support staff that is spread between the two manufacturing locations and the RealTruck corporate office.
CORE FUNCTIONS
- Provide design engineering support in alignment with the Manufacturing Center of Excellence (COE) leader and Product Category Manager.
- Manage all product development activities, including new product development (NPD), testing & validation, vehicle application development (a.k.a., line extensions) and continuous product improvements.
- New product development is managed according to the RealTruck Product Roadmap, Phase Gate process, and established RACI.
- Manage the vehicle application engineering activity per RealTruck’s Line Extension Annual Process (LEAP). Ensure all performance and safety targets are met.
- Support continuous improvement (C.I.) activities as it relates to product warranty, design-to-value (DTV), and Compass Room activities.
- Provide Resource Management per the annual Project Workload planning and budgeting process. Additionally, establish the R&D budget related to expenses, travel & entertainment, and CAPEX.
- Initiate and approve re-designs for existing products that improve manufacturability, reduce warranty, or reduce costs.
- Coordinate among cross-functional departments to ensure proper communication of projects, priorities, and responsibilities. Ensure full utilization of engineering resources.
- Identify and implement process or procedural improvements that have a high impact on team efficiency and throughput.
- Manage a team of design engineering professionals.
- Provide leadership and direction on project priorities and workload.
- Coach and develop team members; identify gaps in talent and provide training opportunities. Provide feedback and recognition.
QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Education and Experience
- S. in Mechanical Engineering or similar engineering degree required.
- 10+ years of engineering experience required; 5+ years in management role.
- Experience in Six Sigma and Lean manufacturing preferred; OEM Tier 1 experience desired.
Required Licenses
- Six Sigma Black Belt preferred.
Skills and Abilities
- Advanced knowledge of SolidWorks CAD software.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and CAD drawings.
- Ability to solve complex problems and deal with a variety of concrete and discrete variables.
- Ability to write, speak, and comprehend English. Ability to read, analyze and interpret common scientific and technical journals.
- Ability to effectively present information to top management.
Availability
- Must be available to provide oversight to 2nd and 3rd shift projects if needed. Must be available for go-lives on the weekend in support of engineering and operations staff.
Travel
- Occasional travel may be required, up to 20%.
COMPETENCIES
- Analytical – Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs work flows and procedures.
- Cost Consciousness – Works within approved budget; Develops and implements cost saving measures; Contributes to profits and revenue; Conserves organizational resources.
- Design – Generates creative solutions; Translates concepts and information into images; Uses feedback to modify designs; Applies design principles; Demonstrates attention to detail.
- Innovative – Displays original thinking and creativity; Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work; Develops innovative approaches and ideas.
- Interpersonal Skills – Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality; Listens to others without interrupting; Keeps emotions under control; Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things.
- Judgement – Displays willingness to make decisions; Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; Supports and explains reasoning
Apply for this role
Generate a tailored application kit with a matched cover letter, interview prep, and CV highlights — in under 60 seconds.
Apply Now →Generate Application KitFree account required — sign up in 30s