Director, Engineering

Position Summary

The Director of Engineering is a strategic leader responsible for overseeing the development, testing, and implementation of engineering initiatives from concept through market deployment. This role leads cross-functional teams, manages a portfolio of high-impact projects, and ensures alignment with operations and overall business objectives. The Director will drive innovation, production optimization, and continuous improvement across all engineering programs, while mentoring a team of project managers and engineers.

Location: St. Louis/Hybrid, may also consider remote candidates

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Program Leadership: Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects and strategic programs from lab phase through market testing and implementation.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Collaborate with Operations, R&D, Finance, and Executive Leadership to prioritize initiatives, align resources, and ensure business readiness for deployment.
• Production Optimization Oversight: Manage all Production Control Optimization (PCO) requests from the field. Provide timely recommendations to DROs and RVPs, and ensure all documentation and materials are current and actionable.
• Engineering Process Excellence: Oversee the design and implementation of methods for process control, quality assurance, and continuous improvement. Champion data-driven decision-making and statistical analysis.
• Facility & Equipment Planning: Direct the design and layout of equipment, materials, and workspaces to maximize efficiency, throughput, and labor utilization. Lead feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses for new systems.
• Team Leadership & Development: Build and lead a high-performing team of project managers and engineers. Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and professional growth.
• Budget & Resource Management: Develop and manage budgets for engineering programs. Oversee capital planning, vendor relationships, and resource allocation.
• New Store Development Support: Participate in the planning and execution of new and remodeled bakery café locations, ensuring engineering standards and efficiency metrics are integrated.
• Executive Communication: Provide regular updates to senior leadership, including strategic recommendations, project milestones, and performance metrics.
• Travel: Travel up to 30%, including international, to support project execution and field implementation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing Engineering, or Engineering Management.
• 8 years of progressive experience in engineering, project management, or operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Experience in the food service, manufacturing, or consumer goods industry preferred.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Robotics or software development experience is a plus.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and team development capabilities.
• Deep knowledge of process control, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to manage complex, cross-functional initiatives in a fast-paced environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Disabled/Veterans