Lead - Hardware DepartmentBloomingdale, IL ( TypeFull-timeDescriptionOVERVIEWCadrex is searching for a Hardware Department Lead to oversee all hardware-related operations and manage a team of hardware engineers. Your role will involve ensuring the successful execution of hardware development projects, implementing best practices, and driving continuous improvement within the department. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual with strong leadership abilities and a passion for hardware engineering to make a significant impact within our organization.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESLead and manage a team of hardware engineers, providing guidance, mentorship, and supportSet clear performance expectations, monitor progress, and conduct regular performance evaluationsFoster a collaborative and motivating work environment, encouraging innovation and professional developmentOversee the planning, execution, and delivery of hardware development projects according to established timelines and budget constraintsCoordinate with cross-functional teams (such as design, software, and manufacturing) to ensure smooth project execution and timely deliveryMonitor project risks and implement appropriate mitigation strategies to ensure project successProvide technical guidance and expertise to the hardware engineering team, assisting with complex design challenges and troubleshootingStay up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in hardware engineering, and share knowledge within the teamCollaborate with the design team to review and optimize hardware designs for manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, and reliabilityIdentify opportunities for process optimization and efficiency enhancement within the hardware departmentImplement and enforce standardized processes and best practices to improve productivity and qualityContinuously evaluate existing hardware development methodologies, tools, and workflows, and recommend improvementsCollaborate effectively with other department leads, fostering a cohesive and cross-functional work environmentCommunicate regularly with stakeholders, providing updates on project status, addressing concerns, and managing expectationsFacilitate effective communication between the hardware engineering team and other departments, ensuring alignment and coordinationRequirementsPREFERRED QUALIFICATIONSProven experience in hardware engineering, with a focus on product development and manufacturingStrong leadership and team management skills, with a track record of successfully leading and motivating teamsProficient in project management methodologies and tools, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneouslyDeep technical knowledge and expertise in hardware design, development, and testingExperience with product lifecycle management (PLM) tools and manufacturing processes.Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilitiesStrong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across different teams and levels of the organizationResults-oriented mindset with a commitment to quality and continuous improvementEDUCATIONBachelors degree in Engineering preferredLOCATIONOnsiteSCHEDULEM-FWORK ENVIRONMENTWhile performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to work near moving mechanical parts and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to the risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and occasionally loud.PHYSICAL DEMANDSWhile performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, sit, use hands and fingers, handle or feel, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, color vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.CADREX’S CORE VALUESSafety first, rising to the challenge, collaboration, accountability, and doing the right thingABOUT USCADREX Manufacturing Solutions is a leading provider of complex sheet metal and machined production parts, assemblies, and weldments for a variety of end markets, including electrical transmission and distribution, warehouse automation, technology, aerospace & defense, medical, food, and industrials. With locations in Colorado, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Washington, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Indiana, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, and Monterrey Mexico, CADREX offers numerous in-house manufacturing capabilities, including laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, complex assembly, CNC punching, CNC machining, forming, robotic welding, stamping, fastener insertion, and tool and die manufacturing, to effectively serve customers with lights-out manufacturing capabilities for mid- to high-volume production. For more information, visit provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. 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