Manufacturing Launch Manager

About the Role

As the Manufacturing Launch Manager, you will plan, organize, and manage the Manufacturing Launch function, providing engineering directions or recommendations for Assembly and Manufacturing Processes, Operations, and Production Launch. Your focus will be on manufacturing systems, processes, standards, tooling, Launch KPIs, driving APQP compliance, supporting PFEP & PPAP, and overseeing the complete manufacturing process from raw material input to finished product output. The goal is to attain maximum production efficiency, effectiveness, and productivity at high-quality standards in a cost-effective manner without compromising Production schedule, Safety, or Quality.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day directions to the Manufacturing Launch Management department.
• Drive APQP compliance, ensuring all relevant deliverables are completed as per program or launch timeline.
• Support PFEP & PPAP and provide management reports tracking Performance, Launch Preparedness & Risks, Launch KPIs, and Recovery plans for short-term or long-term goals and new/modified product launches.
• Lead the VSM and Build Process activities, including the creation of visual indicators of operating conditions.
• Maintain records for production processes, equipment, tooling, gauges, jigs, and fixtures to optimize manufacturing processes, including safety, quality, and efficiency by studying product requirements and applying knowledge of product design, fabrication, assembly, tooling, and materials.
• Improve manufacturing efficiency by analyzing and planning workflow, space requirements, and equipment layout.
• Develop capital equipment requests (CAPEX’s) for assembly and manufacturing projects.
• Design and analyze labor and space requirements, product design, quality requirements, workflow, and layout of equipment and workspace to maximize efficiency, consistency, and effectiveness of manufacturing and assembly operations.
• Collaborate with design, materials, supply chain, safety, quality, and production teams.
• Collocate with various Vendors, Suppliers, and sister units.
• Actively participate in Gemba walks and provide support to the production teams.
• Support and participate in lean initiatives by developing assembly and manufacturing processes to further improve continuous safety, product quality, and productivity.
• Keep leadership regularly updated on key metrics and progress of each project.
• Perform other duties as required or directed by management.
• Responsible for estimating and executing projects with KPIs, within budget and on time.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a technical field (Engineering or Technology).
• Ten plus (10+) years of total experience in manufacturing or engineering & manufacturing combined in the sheet metal fabrication industry. Automotive experience is a plus.
• Two plus (2+) years of experience in manufacturing launch. Experience in APQP is a plus.
• Experience in leading (directly or indirectly) a team of Projects Engineers, Manufacturing and/or Industrial Engineers, technical support engineers, Maintenance, and Facilities support.
• Experience in launching production of new or modified products and implementing automated processes.
• Experience with DFM, DFA, PFMEA, CP, and their applications is preferred.
• Experience with Program/Project Management and Lean Manufacturing is preferred.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance.
• 401(k) Savings Plan with Company Match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Tools Purchase Program.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• 10 Paid Holidays.
• Generous Footwear, Eyewear, and Safety Equipment Discount Program.
• Paid Training and Development Programs.