Head of Process Engineering, Vandrel

About the role

The role owns the copper-to-PEEK interface and partners with global vendors to configure and bring up production-capable equipment. The role establishes the standards, traceability, and documentation that enable reliable replication across modular micro-factories.

Software engineers turn product ideas into working code. Engineers work in small teams, review each other's work, and ship in small batches. Most teams follow agile practices such as sprints and daily standups. Engineers also write tests, fix bugs, and improve performance. The field values clear communication as much as technical skill. Engineers spend part of every week on planning, code review, and debugging, not just writing new code. The ability to explain a technical decision in plain words separates strong engineers from the rest.

Key facts

• Responsibility for end-to-end process development from resin handling to wound-ready wire across target conductor gauges.
• Ownership of surface preparation, oxidation control, adhesion strategy, and bond verification for copper-to-PEEK interfaces.
• Specification, qualification, and sourcing of extruders, crossheads, dies, cooling, spooling, and inline metrology with vendors.
• Definition of dielectric strength, pinhole rate, elongation, partial discharge, thermal cycling, and fluid compatibility standards and their metrology.
• Transition of processes from pilot through first commercial runs, building process IP, trade secrets, and patentable methods.
• Translation of line design into a modular, repeatable layout that supports micro-factory deployment.
• Implementation of AI-driven computer vision and acoustic sensors to create meter-by-meter traceability for every spool.
• Leadership of process engineers, technicians, and quality staff with a hands-on technical culture.

Requirements

Bring 10+ years in polymer extrusion, wire and cable manufacturing, or high-performance coatings, with at least 5 years in a senior technical leadership role. Possess hands-on experience with high-temperature thermoplastics, especially PEEK, PEKK, PAEK, or comparable semi-crystalline engineering polymers. Demonstrate a track record of taking extrusion or coating processes from pilot into production, managing yield, cost, and long-term reliability. Show deep knowledge of the copper-to-polymer interface, including surface prep, adhesion chemistry, thermal behavior, and aging. Prove ability to specify and qualify capital equipment from first principles and partner with vendors on PEEK-capable tooling. Operate comfortably in PPE and at the process interface, solving defects at any hour. Familiarity with IEC 60317 and NEMA MW 1000 magnet wire standards is a plus.

Practical notes

The role requires a degree. The position is based in New York and involves hands-on leadership in a senior, technical, venture-backed hard-tech environment. Travel may be required to engage with vendors and clients. Typical interview steps

Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.

Good to know

The role centers on polymer extrusion and magnet wire manufacturing for defense, aerospace, and EV applications. Core tools include extrusion lines, AI-driven computer vision, and acoustic sensing for traceability. Success depends on mastery of copper-to-polymer interfaces and process documentation for IP generation. The environment is hands-on, with senior staff working alongside operators.