Job Description
Dir Manufacturing Engineering – Interiors Manufacturing

• *Location:** Americas Region- can be based in OH, MI or MS sites
• *Reports to:**
• Disciplinary: VP Operations Region
• Functional: VP Manufacturing Engineering Global

Purpose of the Role
Lead the development, industrialization, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes for premium automotive interior components, including seating systems, consoles, armrests, and decorative painted parts.
Ensure manufacturing feasibility, cost efficiency, and quality through advanced technologies such as 1K/2K injection molding, plastic welding, lamination, cut & sew, and foaming.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic & Technical Leadership

• Define and implement regional manufacturing strategies aligned with global standards.
• Lead cross-functional teams in the planning and execution of new product industrialization.
• Drive innovation in manufacturing processes and equipment for premium interiors.

Advanced Manufacturing Engineering

• Interface with R&D to ensure product manufacturability from acquisition through SOP +6 months.
• Lead RFQ responses with manufacturing plans, investment, and headcount estimates.
• Design and document manufacturing processes (flow charts, PFMEA, layouts, work instructions).
• Specify, source, and validate production equipment and tooling.

Facility & Process Development

• Lead greenfield and brownfield facility projects, including layout, utilities, and workforce planning.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, and ramp-up of new production lines and technologies.
• Ensure compliance with automotive standards (APQP, IATF 16949, etc.).

Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Analyze and improve existing processes for efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, and preventive maintenance practices.
• Support urgent production issues and customer escalations with technical expertise.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, or Automation Engineering.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in manufacturing, with at least 5 years in automotive interiors.
• Proven experience in project management, layout design, and process industrialization.
• Strong knowledge of injection molding (1K/2K), plastic welding, lamination, cut & sew, and foaming.

Skills & Competencies

• Certified in MOST, MTM, or equivalent time analysis methods.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, MS Project, SAP, and MS Office.
• Strong leadership, communication, and cross-cultural collaboration skills.
• Fluent in English; additional languages are a plus.
• Familiar with REFA, FMEA, Lean tools, and international manufacturing standards.