Overview
Lead and implement strategy for floor level manufacturing operations of a complex electro-mechanical business unit. Challenge current technologies and manufacturing practices and lead implementation of new, innovative, and lean assembly techniques. Oversee manufacturing engineering team to identify root cause of recurring production line stoppages and balance technical and commercial priorities, with close attention to customer service, product quality and overall operational excellence. Use coaching and mentoring skills to cultivate a team-wide commitment to lean management principles, embedding a culture of continuous improvement and problem solving.
Key Responsibilities – Leadership
* Ensure all team members are safe and are working in line with PPE requirements and safe systems of work
* Ensure teams participate in continuous improvement initiatives that address issues that impact throughput
* Motivate team members and perform regular appraisals or 1-to-1 meetings
* Responsible for the Health & Safety of your work area and your team members, including the review and upkeep of all risk assessments, identifying H&S training requirements, providing inductions to new team members, dealing with PPE issues and H&S breaches, undertaking regular H&S inspections and accident reporting
* Undertake the role of Fire Marshal for your work area and team members, including regular checks for hazards and issues, completion of fire risk assessment actions, ensuring all people in your area are aware of evacuation procedures and drawing their attention to hazardous practices
Key Responsibilities – Functional
* Conduct daily reviews of key BU operational metrics in collaboration with the Supply Chain Manager to ensure global warehouse stock levels are maintained, quality standards are upheld, and products are shipped on time and in full
* Analyze daily production and quality performance indicators (cycle time deviations, lost time, RMAs, production rejects, and failed outgoing inspections) and guide front-line leaders in developing targeted action plans to drive continuous improvement
* Conduct at least two Value Stream transformation projects annually, working closely with relevant teams to achieve tangible results in production efficiency and performance
* Work closely with Planners to ensure route times are accurate and can be relied on to schedule load-balanced end-to-end production flow that minimises stockouts and backorders
* Support the sales and technical support teams when customer issues arise and be the customer point of contact on behalf of the BU when required
* Collaborate closely with the design engineering group to build out the product portfolio and configure the BU to smoothly execute New Product Introduction (NPI)
What you will get
Thorlabs offers opportunities for in-house customised training and development that accelerates career progression. We have free onsite parking, free refreshments, and an entertainment area in a large canteen for your enjoyment.
Benefits
Competitive salary plus an excellent benefits package including pension, health care, 25 days holiday plus public holidays.
Qualifications
* Degree level engineering background, with proven critical thinking and problem-solving skills
* Chartered Engineer preferred
* Previous production management experience, preferably in a similar scientific manufacturing industry
* Understanding of Lean principles and their practical implementation (including but not limited to SMED, PFEP, EPEI, and pull)
* A sound understanding of improvement techniques such as Value Stream and Process mapping and Visual Management systems
* Ability to read engineering drawings and appreciate best practices in mechanical and electronic manufacturing assembly techniques
* Knowledge of metrology tools (e.g. calipers, DTIs, gauges, micrometers, etc.)
* Strong critical analysis and problem-solving skills and project management
* A good understanding of the photonics market, competitor products and customer needs
* Strong communication skills with the ability to train, mentor and present new ideas
About Thorlabs
Thorlabs is a global, industry-leading optical technologies company. We design and manufacture a range of photonics products used in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are a gold-standard provider with optics laboratories worldwide. There are 22 facilities across 9 countries. Here in Ely, we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.
Location
You will be working in our new purpose-built facility in Witchford, Ely. Our facility is just 12 miles from Cambridge, with train and bus links to Ely from London. The site is within reach of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.
Seniority level
* Mid-Senior level
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Other
Industries
* IT Services and IT Consulting
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