Director, Engineering Project Management

MKS Instruments • Irvine, CA

2d • $230,000 - $275,000 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Director, Engineering Project Management for our Systems Business in Irvine, CA to lead the strategy, structure, staffing, governance, and execution of cross-functional initiatives—including the Product Development Process (PDP) and Quality Improvement—within MKS’ matrixed organization. This role partners closely with senior leadership, internal and external stakeholders, and customers to deliver business-critical outcomes while strengthening project management capabilities and driving continuous improvement across the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field required; advanced technical degree preferred. Equivalent experience will be considered.
• 15+ years of experience in fast-paced, technically complex environments (e.g., product development, manufacturing, or R&D), with a track record of delivering complex, cross-functional initiatives.
• Proven ability to improve processes, establish scalable ways of working, and implement governance that enables consistent, efficient execution.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to align stakeholders, lead global teams, manage risk, and engage directly with customers.

Nice To Haves

• Project management certification (e.g., PMP) is a plus.
• Background in optics, lasers, photonics, or related technologies is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing Project Management organization by fostering a strong culture, building talent, and coaching teams to perform at their best.
• Drive execution of complex, cross-functional initiatives, ensuring alignment with business goals and consistent delivery against scope, schedule, cost, and quality targets.
• Scale and enhance the Product Development Process (PDP) through clear standards, governance, and best practices that enable efficient, repeatable execution across global teams.
• Implement project management tools, methodologies, and operating rhythms that improve planning, visibility, and decision-making.
• Partner with senior leaders and cross-functional teams; both in Irvine and across global MKS locations to align on priorities and objectives.
• Lead customer-facing execution by proactively managing risk and driving successful outcomes for complex initiatives.

Benefits

• health insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision)
• 401(k) with company match
• life and disability insurance
• 12 paid holidays
• sick time
• 15 paid vacation days
• 6 weeks fully paid parental leave
• adoption assistance
• tuition reimbursement
• participation in any stock programs
• signing bonus

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director