Manager, Production – Lean, Automation

Role Overview

• Develop and implement long-term lean manufacturing strategies, including production automation enhancements using PLCs, robotics, sensors, VFDs, servo systems, and AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and support AI infrastructure scalability.
• Lead Kaizen events, value stream mapping (VSM), and continuous improvement workshops to optimize server assembly processes, integrating SCADA/HMI solutions for real-time monitoring and AI-driven predictive maintenance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (R&D, QA, and production) to conduct root cause analysis (RCA) on defects, implement Engineering Change Orders (ECO), and enhance automation for failure prevention and quality control to help build AI factory capabilities.
• Coach and train staff on lean principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and tools like 5S, Kanban, SMED, and PID control to foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence, with an eye toward integrating AI infrastructure.
• Oversee process optimization projects, including scripting or batch file development for automation, and ensure compliance with ISO guidelines for safety, quality, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability in our AI-driven manufacturing environment.
• Provide reports and analytics for management reviews on production metrics, defect rates, and lean initiative impacts, focusing on building toward AI infrastructure performance to support business targets in a fast-paced environment.
• Manage supplier and sub-tier audits, integrate network protocols (Modbus, OPC UA, Ethernet/IP) for automated systems, and drive cost reductions through waste elimination and flow improvements in server and AI factory production.
• Willing to handle assigned tasks requested by the company and provide occasional support beyond regular hours for business needs.

Requirements

• BS/MS in Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field preferred; 8+ years of relevant experience in electronics manufacturing, with strong focus on servers, storage systems, hard drives, and ideally AI infrastructure industry.
• Proven leadership in lean manufacturing, including hands-on experience with production automation enhancement, AOI, and inspection/test coverage for high-density server assemblies.
• Expertise in PLC programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text; e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens), SCADA/HMI platforms (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition), and LabVIEW/Python for process scripting, with knowledge of AI tools for factory optimization.
• Strong understanding of electrical controls, instrumentation, pneumatics, robotics integration, and AI infrastructures (e.g., data center racks, liquid cooling systems for AI servers) as a major plus to help build our capabilities.
• Familiarity with IPC standards and tools like oscilloscopes, multimeters for troubleshooting in automated environments.
• Analytical mindset with problem-solving abilities; experience in root cause analysis (8D/SCAR) and MRB workflows.
• Good communication skills in English, including both written and verbal; ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma (Black Belt preferred) and experience or knowledge in AI infrastructures for AI factory operations as a major plus; willingness to lead cultural change initiatives.

Tech Stack

• Assembly
• Python

Benefits

• Participation in bonus and equity award programs