Mechanical engineering manager

Forgent is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead the mechanical design and drafting function for our liquid-filled transformer product line in Waco, TX. This role owns the mechanical integrity, manufacturability, and continuous improvement of our transformer designs — from tanks and radiators to core/coil mechanical structures and bushings/hardware — while building and developing a growing team of drafters and engineers. Reporting to the Director of Operations, this leader will balance hands-on technical ownership with people leadership, partnering closely with manufacturing, quality, electrical engineering, and supply chain to deliver transformers that are safe, reliable, and built to last.

Essential Functions

• Lead and oversee the mechanical engineering function, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective, and manufacturable product designs that support business objectives.
• Manage, develop, and mentor a team of engineers and technical professionals by establishing priorities, allocating resources, providing performance feedback, and supporting career growth.
• Drive engineering excellence through the development and implementation of design standards, processes, best practices, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Sourcing, and other cross-functional stakeholders to align engineering activities with production, quality, cost, and customer requirements.
• Lead problem-solving efforts related to product design, manufacturing, and field performance issues, ensuring timely resolution and implementation of corrective actions.
• Support business growth by developing organizational capability, recruiting and retaining talent, and fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Serve as a key technical and operational leader, providing guidance on engineering priorities, resource planning, and strategic initiatives.

Competencies

• Leadership
• Technical Capacity
• Problem Solving and Analysis
• Project Management
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Coaching and Talent Development
• Decision Making
• Verbal and Written Communication
• Accountability
• Organizational Skills
• Continuous Improvement Mindset
• Attention to Detail
• Proficiency with CAD and Transformer Design Tools
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Products

Supervisory Responsibility

This position supervises mechanical engineering staff, including Mechanical Drafters and Mechanical Engineers.

Environment/Physical Requirements

The ideal candidate must be able to complete all physical requirements of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be able to access and navigate each department in the Office and Factory Floor.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position, and hours of work and days are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, depending on workload there may be occasional longer days and occasional weekends as needed. Employee is expected to work the hours necessary in order to timely and satisfactorily complete all necessary work tasks.

Travel

Regular travel is not required for this position. Up to 5-10% domestic travel for customer visits, supplier meetings, and technical coordination.

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering required. Minimum of 6 years of engineering experience in transformer design or a related field required; direct experience designing liquid-filled power or distribution transformers, including tanks, radiators, core/coil structures, and bushings, strongly preferred. Minimum of 3 years of people leadership experience required. Experience with SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and transformer design software preferred.