Vice President of Engineering #0405KC

Location: Columbia, United States Keller Executive Search is recruiting on behalf of a specialized rubber and polymer manufacturer. Our client is seeking a Vice President of Engineering to guide product development, technical strategy, and engineering excellence across its manufacturing portfolio. Key Responsibilities Establish the organization’s engineering and product development strategy. Lead product engineering, process engineering, research, and technical services teams. Direct the development and commercialization of rubber and polymer products. Improve material performance, product consistency, manufacturability, and technical quality. Evaluate new compounds, production technologies, equipment, and automation opportunities. Oversee engineering standards, technical documentation, testing, and change controls. Partner with customers on specifications, applications, and technical problem-solving. Manage engineering budgets, project priorities, staffing, and capital recommendations. Protect intellectual property and support patent development where appropriate. Requirements Bachelor’s degree in chemical, mechanical, materials, polymer, or manufacturing engineering. Advanced engineering degree preferred. 12+ years of progressive engineering experience. 5+ years leading engineering managers or multidisciplinary technical teams. Experience within rubber, polymers, elastomers, chemicals, or related manufacturing. Knowledge of product development, materials testing, and manufacturing processes. Demonstrated success bringing technical products from concept to production. Benefits Salary: $150,000 to $180,000 annually, plus annual bonus Annual bonus opportunity of up to 15% Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) plan with 5% company match Relocation assistance where applicable 20 days of paid time off Paid holidays and year-end shutdown days Engineering conference and education allowance Patent recognition program Company-paid life and disability insurance Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. 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