Director of Manufacturing Engineering

Director of Manufacturing Engineering - Stuttgart, Arkansas

The Director of Manufacturing Engineering plays a crucial role in our company's success and is responsible for leading and managing all engineering activities related to manufacturing processes and systems. This role ensures the optimization of production processes, the introduction of new technologies, and implementation of best practices to enhance productivity, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

This role offers a unique opportunity for growth and development in manufacturing engineering. Directs manufacturing engineering efforts to reduce assembly and plant operations costs. Ensures the engineering team and other manufacturing departments work together cohesively. This position reports to the General Plant Manager,

Accountabilities and responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Provide strategic direction and leadership for the manufacturing engineering department, aligning engineering activities with overall business goals and objectives.
• Process Optimization: Lead efforts to optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce cycle times, and minimize waste.
• New Technology Implementation: Evaluate, select, and implement new manufacturing technologies and equipment to enhance production capabilities.

• Continuous Improvement: Drive continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations through methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Kaizen.
• Quality Assurance: Collaborate with quality assurance teams to ensure manufacturing processes meet quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Cost Management: Develop and manage budgets for engineering projects and initiatives, ensuring cost-effective utilization of resources.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with other departments (such as Production, R&D, Quality, and Supply Chain) to coordinate engineering activities and support overall operational efficiency.
• Talent Development: Recruit, train, and mentor engineering staff; foster a culture of innovation, teamwork, and professional growth within the department.
• Project Management: Oversee the planning, execution, and completion of engineering projects on time and within budget.

• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks associated with manufacturing engineering activities, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Vendor and Supplier Relations: Manage relationships with external vendors and suppliers of engineering services and equipment, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness.

• Responsible for departmental ISO and SOX requirements.
• Advisor to senior leadership on the continuous improvement strategy and transformation to tactically deploy Lean transformation.

Qualifications:

Education:

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field. A master's degree or MBA may be preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing engineering, with at least five years in a leadership role overseeing engineering functions.
• Strong expertise in implementing engineering solutions in manufacturing, particularly in the automotive, aerospace, electronics, and pharmaceutical industries.
• Demonstrated success in driving process improvements and cost reductions through engineering initiatives.
• Successful, 10+ year track record in large, single-site industrial manufacturing organizations.
• Self-motivated, resourceful, and entrepreneurial, demonstrating willingness for learning and improvement.
• Previous experience in robust Lean environments; Lean certification preferred.
• Extensive experience in CAD or AutoCAD or related design experience.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings/plans.
• SAP software experience.
• Prior knowledge/experience with PLC's.

Skills:

• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire teams.
• Strategic thinking and decision-making abilities, with a focus on achieving business objectives.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and standards relevant to manufacturing operations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.