Process Optimization Manager

Southwire•Starkville, MS

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Process Optimization Manager is responsible for developing, standardizing, ensuring the quality of, and continuously improving processes and products at a Southwire site. The role focuses on developing and coaching team members in process engineering, quality, tool and die management, and continuous improvement. Key initiatives include a zero-incident EHS culture, material usage, scrap, OEE, cost reduction, quality, and continuous improvement. The manager leads Quality, Continuous Improvement, and Processing Engineering team members; uses Lean and Six Sigma methods to deliver process improvements; maintains the Quality Management System; and oversees new product implementation. The role also leads plant cost-reduction projects and partners with Maintenance and Engineering on reliability improvements. It manages staff performance and development and collaborates across functions to support business priorities, operational stability, safety, quality, and continuous improvement. This position is based at the Starkville, Mississippi plant. It manages Southwire team members and has 2–5 direct reports. Travel is not required. The work environment includes an office and plant/warehouse floor.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field.
5–7 years of experience in process engineering/optimization, continuous improvement, and quality.
Possess or be working toward a Six Sigma Black Belt.

Nice To Haves

Master of Engineering.
Six Sigma Black Belt.
8–11 years of experience in process engineering/optimization, continuous improvement, and quality.

Responsibilities

Lead, coach, and develop Quality, Continuous Improvement, and Processing Engineering team members.
Train and employ Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to lead process improvement projects focused on OEE, material usage, scrap, and quality goals.
Lead and facilitate Kaizen events to drive continuous improvement.
Maintain a robust Quality Management System so products and services meet or exceed customer expectations, including an effective and compliant ISO 9001 system and required UL and other certifications.
Ensure successful implementation of new products using methods such as APQP and PPAP.
Lead a systematic cost-reduction process, including annually identifying and pursuing opportunities to improve plant operating costs and reduce overall product cost.
Own the Cost Out project pipeline, targeting 10% annual plant cost reduction.
Partner with the Maintenance & Engineering Manager to implement the Maintenance and Reliability roadmap, increasing planned and predictive maintenance and reducing reactive maintenance.
Ensure strong governance and documentation of process standards.
Collaborate cross-functionally to align process improvements with business priorities and support operational stability, safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
Perform other duties as assigned and comply with all policies and standards.
Manage staff performance and development, coaching team members to contribute to department goals and reach their potential.

Benefits

401(k) with matching.
Family and individual insurance packages, including health, life, dental, and vision.
Paid time off and paid holidays.
Long- and short-term disability.
Supplemental insurance plans.
Employee Assistance Program.
Employee Referral Program.
Tuition reimbursement programs.
Advancement and professional growth opportunities.
Parental leave.