Director of Engineering

At AST, we enhance the efficiency, productivity, and safety of flexible aseptic manufacturing processes for the worldwide Life Science Industry by offering innovative products, services, and solutions.  Do you want to contribute to a shared vision and mission? Would you like to bring your unique talents to have a significant impact at a growing company? At AST we strive to build a workplace that enables every team member to meet and exceed their capabilities. We set our expectations high and provide the environment and resources necessary to bring out the very best. AST is proud of our team. Providing challenging and rewarding work, with opportunities for personal/professional development is our key to this longevity. AST is an equal opportunity employer. 

Compensation range for onsite WA applicants is $150,000 to $200,000. All applicants are welcome to apply.  

Employee benefits include: Medical (HSA & PPO), Dental, Vision, Long/Short term disability, HSA account with employer contribution, 401(K) (Traditional & Roth options) with up to 5% company match, Education Assistance, Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holiday, and bonus potential. 

What can I expect in this role? The Director of Engineering will lead and manage the engineering functions within a manufacturing organization focused on complex mechanical systems and advanced electrical controls. This role is responsible for driving innovation, ensuring engineering excellence, and supporting production efficiency across all projects and processes. The ideal candidate brings strong technical expertise, strategic vision, and leadership experience in mechanical design, automation, and electrical control systems.

Responsibilities: Leadership & Strategy

• Develop and execute the engineering department’s strategic plan aligned with organizational goals.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary team of engineers (mechanical, electrical, controls, and automation).
• Drive a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and cross-functional collaboration.

Engineering Management

• Oversee the design, development, and implementation of mechanical and electrical systems for manufacturing equipment and production lines.
• Ensure the timely and cost-effective execution of engineering projects, from concept through production launch.
• Develop and maintain engineering standards, processes, and documentation to ensure consistency and compliance.

Manufacturing Support

• Partner with operations, production, and service teams to improve equipment reliability, reduce downtime, and optimize manufacturing processes.
• Provide engineering support for root cause analysis and resolution of complex technical issues on the production floor.
• Implement and sustain robust preventive and predictive maintenance strategies involving controls and automation systems.

Electrical & Controls Focus

• Guide the design and integration of electrical control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and sensors.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety and electrical standards (e.g., NEC, UL, NFPA 70E, IEC).
• Evaluate and approve control system architectures, schematics, and panel layouts.

Project Management

• Support project management with scope development, budgeting, scheduling, and execution planning
• Collaborate with procurement, suppliers, and contractors to source components, and ensure quality deliverables.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure engineering activities comply with applicable regulations, safety standards, and quality certifications (e.g., ISO 9001).
• Promote a strong safety culture in all engineering and manufacturing practices.

Qualifications: Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred).

Experience:

• 10+ years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 5+ years in a leadership role managing cross-functional engineering teams.
• Proven experience with both mechanical system design and electrical/control system integration.

Technical Skills:

• Deep knowledge of PLC programming, HMI development, networking, and automation hardware.
• Strong mechanical engineering background with experience in machinery design, hydraulics/pneumatics, and CAD tools.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and TPM methodologies.
• Strong project management capabilities (PMP certification a plus).

Soft Skills:

• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinker with a hands-on, problem-solving mindset.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-mix manufacturing environment.

Work Environment:

• Mix of office and manufacturing floor environments in Tacoma, WA.
• May involve travel to suppliers and/or customers sites (up to 20%).

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction.'
• Must be willing to take and successfully pass a drug test. This is a safety sensitive position and will screen for marijuana/THC.

AST is proud of our team. Providing challenging and rewarding work, with opportunities for personal/professional development is our key to this longevity. AST is an equal opportunity employer.

This is a full-time position based in Tacoma. 

*All benefits listed in this post are subject to change.