About Kinetyc: Kinetyc is a high-growth division of Detroit Manufacturing Systems (DMS) focused on electrification, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing solutions. As a contract manufacturing partner to some of the most innovative companies, Kinetyc focuses on supporting industries that rely on precision manufacturing of complex, multi-component systems - such as electrified infrastructure, industrial automation, next-gen mobility, and digitally enabled health devices. Our build-to-print and NPI services are optimized for products with layered electrical, mechanical, and software integration. With $5M in current revenue and a team of 25 employees, Kinetyc is scaling to $30M+ in revenue and 100 employees over the next five years. This is a hands-on, high-impact leadership role within a dynamic and entrepreneurial environment. Serve Others, Enrich Lives, Rise Together and Give Back Position Overview: The Director, Engineering & Innovation Programs is responsible for all technical execution and program delivery across Kinetyc's customer base. This includes leading design-for-manufacturing reviews, coordinating new product introduction (NPI), managing program timelines and customer expectations, and serving as the engineering voice within the business. This role will lead a growing team of engineers and program managers while also working directly with customers, suppliers, and internal operations to ensure seamless program launches and sustained product performance. Key Responsibilities: Engineering Leadership * Lead Kinetyc's engineering activities, including design-for-manufacturability reviews, technical documentation, and process development. * Collaborate with customers on early-stage product design, manufacturability improvements, and technical feasibility assessments. * Own the creation and maintenance of build documentation, work instructions, and BOMs in support of production readiness. * Drive continuous improvement and innovation in manufacturing processes and technologies. Program Management & Launch Execution * Serve as the overall program lead for new customer launches, coordinating scope, timing, and deliverables across functions. * Develop and manage detailed program timelines and action plans to meet key internal and customer milestones. * Lead program reviews, change management processes, and cross-functional launch meetings. * Ensure all deliverables (PPAP, quality documentation, equipment readiness, etc.) are met to standard and on time. Tech Lab / Innovation Center Oversight * Lead the strategy, development, and daily operations of Kinetyc's Tech Lab and Innovation Center. * Oversee prototyping, tooling trials, concept testing, and early-stage production validations. * Ensure lab capabilities align with customer needs and support DFM and NPI efforts. * Create a safe, agile, and innovation-driven environment that accelerates product realization. Team & Cross-Functional Leadership * Manage a growing team of engineers and program managers to support business growth. * Provide coaching, development, and technical leadership to support team and individual success. * Collaborate with quality, supply chain, and operations teams to ensure aligned program execution and technical integration. * Represent Kinetyc with customers and suppliers in technical discussions, problem-solving sessions, and post-launch reviews. Qualifications: * 8-12 years of engineering or program management experience in a manufacturing environment (automotive, EV, electronics, or similar preferred). * Proven success launching complex, multi-component programs from prototype through production. * Experience leading cross-functional teams and working directly with customers and suppliers. * Strong technical background in electrical, mechanical, or industrial engineering. * Familiarity with APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, DFM/DFA, and other launch processes. * Excellent project management, communication, and organizational skills. * Experience working in a startup or high-growth manufacturing environment is a plus. Traits/Values: Integrity - adhering to high ethical principles and professional standards. * Trustworthiness - Being honest, dependable, and earning the confidence of others. * Excellence - consistently being the best you can be. * Responsible - being reliable and trustworthy. * Accountability - being obligated and willing to accept responsibility for one's actions. * Dignity - behaving in accord with DMS basic principles. * Respect - treating others as you would have them treat you. Our Values: Gratitude * Integrity * Fun * Teamwork * Excellence * Diversity & Respect * Innovation * Commitment * Humility