Manager, Mechanical Engineering (Automation)

Collectors is the leading creator of innovative technology that provides value-added services for collectors worldwide. We grade, authenticate, vault and sell millions of record-setting collectibles, all while modernizing and digitalizing the process to further our mission of helping collectors pursue their passions. We’re always on the lookout for talented people to join our growing team.

Our services span collectible coins, trading cards, Funko Pops!, video games, event tickets, autographs, and memorabilia. Our subsidiaries include PSA, PCGS, WATA, Card Ladder, and the Long Beach Expo collectibles trade show. Since our founding in 1986, we have graded and authenticated millions of items. We employ more than 1,700 people across our headquarters in Santa Ana and offices in Jersey City, Seattle, Canada, Hong Kong, Paris, Shanghai, and Tokyo.

We’re looking for a Manager of Mechanical Engineering to join our Continuous Improvement Team and lead a team of engineers and technicians. This role is responsible for ideation, design, and implementation of solutions to improve materials and mechanical / automated processing. In this role, you will facilitate communication among production departments and management regarding any engineering opportunities. You’ll be working dynamically with your assigned team, internal cross functional partners, as well as external support partners and suppliers.  

You’ll report directly to the Sr. Manager of Operations Engineering and work onsite from our Santa Ana, California office with occasional travel. 

What You’ll Do:

1. Leadership and Management:
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, set individual and team goals, and provide ongoing feedback and support.
2. Automation and Technical Oversight:
• Drive custom automation projects focused on improving efficiency and quality.
• Provide technical guidance and support to the engineering team, ensuring best practices and industry standards are followed.
• Stay updated with the latest technologies and methodologies to enhance the team’s capabilities and product quality.
3. Project Management:
• Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Coordinate with project managers and other stakeholders to align engineering efforts with business objectives.
4. Strategic Planning:
• Contribute to the development and execution of the engineering department’s strategic plan.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and drive initiatives to increase efficiency and productivity.
5. Collaboration:
• Work closely with other departments, such as product management, marketing, and sales, to ensure alignment and support for engineering projects.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration between engineering teams and other parts of the organization.
6. Quality Assurance:
• Implement and maintain robust quality assurance processes to ensure the delivery of high-quality products and solutions.
• Address and resolve any issues or defects that arise during the development and production processes.
7. Risk Management:
• Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to address them.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, standards, and policies.

Who You Are: 

• 8+ years of experience in Operations Engineering, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred), or equivalent work experience.
• Track record of managing successful projects and teams.
• Strong technical background with knowledge of industry standards and best practices.
• Significant experience with the commissioning, deployment, testing, operations and maintenance of industrial automation equipment.
• Proficient using Solidworks CAD/CAM/PDM tools 
• Mechanical design engineering experience preferred.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Experience with project management tools and methodologies.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in specific engineering tools and software relevant to the industry.
• Experience with budgeting and financial management.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.