Director – Process Equipment Design and Fabrication

The Director – Process Equipment Design and Fabrication is responsible for leading the strategic and technical direction of the engineering design and custom fabrication of process equipment. This includes pressure vessels, reactors, skids, mixing systems, tanks, and hygienic piping used in pharmaceutical, biotech, food and beverage, chemical, and other process-intensive industries.

This role oversees a multidisciplinary team including mechanical engineers, project managers, drafters, and fabrication professionals, ensuring all equipment meets performance requirements, regulatory compliance (e.g., ASME, BPE, 3-A), and project timelines. The director also drives innovation in fabrication techniques, material use, and integrated design solutions.

Key Focus Areas:

1. End-to-End Leadership of Process Equipment Projects

2. Integration of Design Engineering with Fabrication Execution

3. Standards Compliance and Quality Assurance (ASME, BPE, 3-A)

4. Cross-Functional Team Management

5. Customer Collaboration and Project Delivery Excellence

Key Responsibilities:

1. Project & Engineering Leadership

• Oversee the full lifecycle of equipment design and fabrication projects from concept to commissioning.

• Ensure alignment with client specifications, performance goals, and industry standards.

• Manage resource allocation, budget adherence, and production schedules.

2. Technical Direction & Design Oversight

• Lead mechanical design and review of process vessels, heat exchangers, skid systems, CIP/SIP modules, and other custom equipment.

• Approve 3D models, P&IDs, fabrication drawings, and material specifications.

• Guide teams on design for manufacturability (DFM), modular fabrication, and innovation in sanitary equipment.

3. Fabrication Integration

• Work closely with fabrication teams to ensure designs are practical, efficient, and cost-effective.

• Implement best practices in stainless steel welding, polishing, surface treatment, and QA inspection.

• Support rapid prototyping, testing, and design iterations as needed.

4. Compliance and Quality Management

• Ensure all equipment meets ASME Section VIII, BPE, 3-A, GMP, and other applicable standards.

• Collaborate with Quality and Regulatory teams to support audits, testing, documentation, and certifications.

• Enforce rigorous internal QA/QC protocols for design and build accuracy.

5. Team Development and Leadership

• Build and mentor a high-performing engineering and fabrication support team.

• Promote cross-training and knowledge sharing between design and shop-floor teams.

• Foster a collaborative and innovative culture focused on continuous improvement.

6. Client Engagement and Project Interface

• Act as the technical liaison with clients, consultants, and third-party inspectors.

• Participate in design reviews, FATs (Factory Acceptance Tests), and troubleshooting.

• Translate client feedback into actionable design and fabrication enhancements.

Qualifications:

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

• 10+ years of experience in process equipment design and/or fabrication, with at least 5 in a senior or director-level role.

• Deep knowledge of ASME Section VIII, B31.3, 3-A, BPE, and hygienic design principles.

Preferred Skills:

• Strong background in sanitary equipment design for clean industries (pharma, F&B, biotech).

• CAD/CAE proficiency (SolidWorks, AutoCAD Plant 3D, Inventor).

• Familiarity with ERP, PLM, and fabrication tracking tools.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and client-facing skills.

Core Competencies:

• Strategic technical leadership

• Interdisciplinary collaboration

• Compliance and documentation rigor

• Innovation in design and fabrication

• Team and performance management