Configuration Management, Manager

GKN Aerospace Careers•Tallassee, AL

About The Position

The Data & Configuration Manager will lead cross functional stakeholders to ensure that the configuration of all aerospace products is fully defined, traceable, and auditable for the complete lifecycle of a specific aerospace program. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and consistency of aerospace product configurations throughout their lifecycle. The candidate will be responsible for implementing and managing Configuration Management processes, with a specific focus on integrating and optimizing Product Data Lifecycle Management practices. The Configuration Manager will support operational and development Programs to enable and deliver zero defect projects utilizing superior engineering and problem-solving skills. The Configuration Manager will keep an overview of all documents within multiple customer accounts. They will deliver robust, capable manufacturing process technology as it applies to both materials, tooling, part fabrication and assembly.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, Electrical) or related technical discipline; equivalent aerospace configuration management experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
5+ in aerospace configuration management, with a focus on PDLM incorporation experience in the manufacturing engineering-configuration field
In-depth knowledge of industry standards such as AS9100 /AS13100 and regulatory requirements related to aerospace configuration control (i.e. ANSI/EIA-649 or equivalent).
Experience with PDLM (Windchill PDM Link) tools and systems, with a track record of successful implementation.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive collaboration.
Able to accommodate up to 10% travel per business needs.
U.S. Person per ITAR regulations to comply with export compliance

Nice To Haves

Strong Project Management Skills
Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Industrial Engineering , Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degree is a plus.
Configuration Management certification preferred.
Six Sigma Training or Lean Manufacturing experience a plus
Demonstrated knowledge of scheduling and planning principles and tools
Aerostructures (metallics and/or composites) experience preferred.
Intermediate to advanced experience utilizing tools such as MRP systems, CATIA/ENOVIA, MS Office Suite ((Word, Excel, Visio (or equivalent) PowerPoint and Project)
Relentless and results driven performer with a Continuous Improvement mind-set.
A dynamic individual with a high level of energy, a proactive self-starter who is confident and able to work independently.
Proven capability to work independently in a range of different manufacturing environments.
Superior interpersonal skills, delivers information clearly and factually Team worker with aptitude for mentoring and coaching.
Demonstrates personal leadership skills; high performance behaviors, self-initiative, excellent work ethic, exercises good judgment, influencing, negotiation and collaboration.

Responsibilities

Lead the development, implementation, and maintenance of aerospace configuration management processes in compliance with customer, industry, and regulatory standards, including MIL STD 973, EIA 649, and ISO IEC 15288.
Define and enforce configuration control policies to ensure product consistency, traceability, and baseline integrity across the product lifecycle.
Maintain accountability for EBOM and MBOM accuracy, including condition of supply documents and approved substitutes.
Own and administer the change control process for aerospace products, including impact analysis related to cost, schedule, performance, manufacturing, and supply chain.
Chair and administer multiple Change Control Boards, ensuring disciplined documentation, approval, and implementation of configuration changes in collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, procurement, program, quality, and supply chain teams.
Establish and maintain robust configuration documentation and baseline management systems to ensure accuracy, accessibility, version control, and audit readiness.
Oversee PDLM integration and tool deployment to streamline data management, change control, and lifecycle traceability.
Serve as a primary interface across engineering, manufacturing, quality, procurement, program, and external customers to align configuration strategies with product development, production, and customer requirements.
Provide regular communication to stakeholders on configuration status, risks, changes, and impacts.
Develop and execute quality assurance and audit processes to validate configuration data accuracy and compliance. Identify opportunities to improve configuration and engineering change processes to reduce cost, increase quality, and improve operational efficiency.
Document and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Provide configuration management expertise in product development, new product quoting, tooling, first article development, and build process definition.
Deliver training and guidance on configuration management principles and PDLM practices.
Stay current on aerospace industry trends and best practices.
Maintain strong working relationships with internal and external customers and team members.
Perform other related duties as assigned.