Manufacturing Engineering Manager

About Us

Through generations of refinement, the Dougherty Difference stands apart. It shows up in our cutting-edge designs, original thinking, and unwavering commitment to our customers. Our family-owned company, based in Edgewater, Florida, proudly builds SOLACE Boats along with a wide range of industry-specific components.

We are driven by innovation and new product development, earning multiple industry awards from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). For decades, Dougherty designs have shaped memorable experiences for customers and families alike, reflecting a legacy that continues to push the boundaries of marine design and engineering.

As a vertically integrated manufacturer, we produce nearly every component in-house using gantry routers, CNC machining, and advanced composite and metal fabrication. This end-to-end control allows us to maintain exceptional quality and deliver products that consistently exceed expectations.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Design Engineering Manager to lead all engineering activities related to planning, organizing, controlling, integrating, and completing engineering programs for production. This role oversees engineering functions and ensures alignment with company standards, customer requirements, and production needs.

Position Description: Design Engineering Manager

As a member of the Engineering Department at Dougherty Manufacturing, the Design Engineering Manager directs and coordinates engineering for production—either performed directly or through subordinate team members. The role requires strong technical expertise, leadership ability, and oversight of engineering systems, design reviews, material selection, and compliance with standards.

Essential Functions of this Role (Onsite Position)

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Two Professional Degreed Engineers
• Three Engineering Interns
• Three Quality Assurance Technicians
• BOM Technician

Duties and Responsibilities

• Analyze engineering drawings, specifications, and related data to determine design factors such as size, shape, and arrangement for production.
• Create concepts, performance criteria, and production requirements.
• Prepare layouts and compute design elements such as angles, weights, surface areas, radii, clearances, and tolerances.
• Plan and formulate engineering programs and organize personnel according to production needs.
• Review designs for compliance with engineering principles, company standards, and customer requirements.
• Direct integration of technical activities and engineering products.
• Enter CAD/CAE computer commands to store or retrieve parts patterns, graphic displays, or programs.
• Evaluate and approve design changes, specifications, and drawing releases.
• Identify and select materials required for production (BOM).
• Modify existing programs and processes to improve efficiency.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to function effectively in a high‑paced, occasionally stressful environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and related software applications.
• Strong customer service skills; ability to resolve problems efficiently.
• Ability to manipulate large Excel files, including use of pivot tables and sorting functions.
• Ability to understand and comply with health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Must be able to speak, read, and write English.
• Willingness to work across multiple departments to support the company and boat owners.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field preferred.
• Three to five years of manufacturing experience.
• Significant work experience (5+ years) may be considered in lieu of formal education.
• CAD experience preferred (Rhino, AutoCAD, SolidWorks).
• Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external vendors.
• Must be able to support new product development, which may require work outside normal schedule.

Working Conditions

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of walking, sitting, and computer work.
• Occasional standing, bending, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• May work in a hot and humid non‑climate‑controlled environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must follow all health and safety standards and use required PPE.

Benefits (Waiting period may apply)

• 401(k)
• Health Insurance
• Dental/Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short‑Term / Long‑Term Disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off

Why Dougherty Manufacturing

Whatever tomorrow brings, we’ll be at the leading edge. As a clear leader in the marine industry, we are committed to our values and dedicated to supporting our exceptional people.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Dougherty Manufacturing is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.