Manufacturing Engineering Manager

About VAT Group

At VAT, we change the world with vacuum solutions. As the world’s leading supplier of high-performance vacuum valves, we have been driving innovation for more than 60 years. With over 3,200 employees worldwide, we operate from our headquarters in Haag, Switzerland, with manufacturing sites in Switzerland, Malaysia and Romania, as well as sales and service hubs around the world. We are guided by our passions integrity, teamwork, customer centricity, and innovation – always working together as #oneVAT.

Joining us means becoming part of a passionate, international team where your voice is heard, your ideas matter, and your career growth is supported.

The Senior Engineering Manager – Equipment Project & Fixture Design leads the planning, execution, and optimization of manufacturing equipment, tooling, and fixtures to support new product launches, plant manufacturing expansion projects, and the company’s automation transformation journey. Working closely with the Operations Excellence department and cross-functional teams, this role ensures that new and upgraded production capabilities are delivered with safety, efficiency, and long-term scalability in mind.

Your responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Lead and manage the Equipment Project Engineering and Fixture Design Engineering teams, providing guidance, coaching, and ongoing support to team members.
• Develop and implement processes for new product launches, including the setup of machines, equipment, tooling, jigs, fixtures, and facilities, followed by machinery acceptance and release for mass production.
• Provide technical expertise in equipment selection, technology strategy, and roadmap development, as well as in drafting technical design specifications, installation, troubleshooting, and ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and safety.
• Formulate and execute strategies to optimize production processes, reduce waste, and enhance overall operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with process engineering, maintenance teams, and suppliers to identify and develop custom automation solutions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance equipment reliability, process efficiency, and production yield on the manufacturing floor.
• Evaluate and implement advanced tools, technologies, and automation solutions to improve production processes and maintain best practices in equipment engineering and fixture design.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, regulations, and safety guidelines.
• Manage process improvement projects, including defining scope, setting objectives, establishing timelines, and allocating resources effectively.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and progress updates for senior management, highlighting the impact of process improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with the Technology Centre global team on system integration automation projects and technology transfers, including site-to-site transfers.
• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in industrial engineering and lean manufacturing.

2. Key Competencies and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field.
• Proven experience in industrial engineering, preferably in a managerial or leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, methodologies, and tools.
• Proficient in process optimization techniques, including time studies, work measurement, and value stream mapping.
• Experience with implementing process automation and utilizing advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and deliver results within deadlines.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate team members.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a data-driven approach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulations related to industrial engineering and manufacturing.

Special Skills (such as special certifications)

• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing with hands-on experience in Lean Line Design, Flow oriented
• Layout Planning, Value Stream Mapping & Design, Motion time management (MTM), industrial engineering methodologies and Lean Manufacturing Principles.
• Familiarity with clean room & production environment and machining manufacturing/ assembly processes.
• Lean Master is a plus
• Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt is a plus

Our commitment to inclusion, fairness and equal opportunities

We believe in meaningful careers, continuous learning, and equal opportunities for everyone to drive our innovation and success. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace. If you have concerns, our compliance channel is available at our website. All reports are handled with strict confidentiality and in accordance with our Code of Conduct.