MIC - Technical Director

Ashland Foundry & Machine Works•Myerstown, PA

About The Position

DEFINITION The Technical Director will oversee all aspects of the melt, ceramic and engineering departments. This includes developing and implementing casting technologies, ensuring metallurgical integrity, optimizing process parameters, and maintaining compliance with industry standards and customer specifications. The position involves managing engineering teams, driving continuous improvement initiatives, troubleshooting complex production issues, and coordinating research and development efforts to enhance product quality and operational efficiency. The Technical Director also serves as a key liaison between production, quality assurance, and customers, ensuring technical solutions align with business objectives and market demands. SUPERVISION RECEIVED This position reports directly to the General Manager SUPERVISION EXERCISED The Technical Director shall supervise leads in melt and ceramic departments as well as the engineering staff. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION NOTE: An employee assigned to this title shall perform a majority, but may not perform all, of the duties listed in this job description. Conversely, minor level duties performed on the job may not be listed. Work in a safe manner with a goal of zero harm. Create safety awareness by actively observing, auditing, and coaching safe work behaviors and conditions. Ensure compliance with safety and environmental rules and regulations. Manage day-to-day foundry operations, including melt, ceramic and engineering Ensure compliance with industry standards, environmental regulations, and company policies. Work with suppliers as needed to control and optimize departmental functions Optimize workflow and resource allocation to meet production targets and reduce costs. Identify opportunities for process improvements, automation, and technology adoption. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed. Drive profitability through efficient operations and waste reduction. Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement. · Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related results, as needed. · Coordinate with department heads and supervisors in resolving production planning and control issues. Prioritize projects and coordinate activities with other departments and organizations within and outside the organization. Ensure proper execution of policies and procedures. All other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Experience with ERP systems and production planning software.
Knowledge of industry standards such as ISO 9001 and AS9100.
Knowledge of foundry operations, metallurgy investment casting processes
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in resource allocation, leadership, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors and senior managers, as well as employees.
Ability to operate a personal computer and secure information from established data processing, spreadsheet, word processing, database and graphics programs.
Ability to express ideas and communicate orally and in writing.
Ability to read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication.
Understanding of plant equipment and production process.
Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible if they can perform the essential functions of the job after reasonable accommodation is made to their known limitations. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.
Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field
Minimum 10 years of experience in metal casting or manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
Strong knowledge of investment casting processes, materials science, and foundry operations.
Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
Ability to speak effectively before the employees in the organization, communicate effectively with customers, suppliers and leadership throughout the organization.
The ability to manage schedules, consider resources, and communicate these needs effectively throughout the organization.

Responsibilities

Work in a safe manner with a goal of zero harm.
Create safety awareness by actively observing, auditing, and coaching safe work behaviors and conditions.
Ensure compliance with safety and environmental rules and regulations.
Manage day-to-day foundry operations, including melt, ceramic and engineering
Ensure compliance with industry standards, environmental regulations, and company policies.
Work with suppliers as needed to control and optimize departmental functions
Optimize workflow and resource allocation to meet production targets and reduce costs.
Identify opportunities for process improvements, automation, and technology adoption.
Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.
Drive profitability through efficient operations and waste reduction.
Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related results, as needed.
Coordinate with department heads and supervisors in resolving production planning and control issues.
Prioritize projects and coordinate activities with other departments and organizations within and outside the organization.
Ensure proper execution of policies and procedures.
All other duties as assigned.