Reporting directly to the Area Supervisor, the Production Development Supervisor is responsible for the improvement of production equipment and processes. The incumbent will lead and support all activities in order to increase production lines efficiency, productivity, cost optimization and quality improvements.

Responsibilities

Enhance production organization by proposing and implementing cost-saving measures, introducing continuous improvements, and identifying methods to boost productivity and reduce costs.
Lead and coordinate projects to optimize production processes, improve equipment efficiency (OEE), and minimize waste and recycle in the assigned production area.
Actively participate in the company’s innovation activities, supporting employees in implementing ideas to optimize work and technological processes, and reduce production costs.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, maintenance, quality assurance) to resolve production issues and implement effective solutions.
Oversee equipment development projects, including researching new technologies, evaluating performance, and recommending upgrades or replacements.
Together with maintenance group, develop and coordinate preventive maintenance schedules to ensure equipment reliability and minimize downtime.
Work with maintenance personnel to schedule and prioritize preventive maintenance tasks, including inspections, repairs, and replacements.
Initiate and lead SMED principal projects to minimize changeover time on production lines.
Conduct regular safety inspections of production lines and promote a culture of safety among production team members.
Maintain and ensure the effective functioning of the quality management system in accordance with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards.
Oversee production planning, accounting, and timely submission of reports on workshop activities.
Ensure the safe and technically correct operation of equipment and other fixed assets, and compliance with maintenance schedules.
Arrange and conduct regular inventory count process in the production area and prepare reports on raw material and auxiliary material consumption as per company procedures.
Ensure timely training, instruction, and testing of knowledge for on-the-job training program.
Ensure compliance with legal and company policies as for it pertains to labor and safety.
Work to improve the skills of production team members and conduct educational activities within the team.
Ensure maintenance and effective functioning of the Quality Management System in accordance with ISO 9001, IATF 16949 and ISO 14001 standards.
Follow all company environmental rules/procedures and handle all materials in a manner designed to minimize environmental impact.
Follow OSHA and company safety rules/procedures (including Lock Out/Tag Out policy) so as to prevent injury to self and others and to maintain safe equipment and conditions in entire area of responsibility
Seek the assistance and advice of safety representatives on matters concerning safe practices, policies and/or procedures and give personal support to all safety activities and procedures.
Maintain accurate records in working documentation/computer production control systems and ensure correct accounting of manufactured products and defects.
Act as backup for Area Supervisor and fill in in case absence.
Other duties as assigned

Skills/Qualifications

Knowledge and experience with statistical methods, such as regression and correlation. High level understanding of statistical packages and databases, especially Microsoft office and Mini tab
Knowledge and experience with tire manufacturing process which would include mixing, components and tire building and curing processes.
Knowledge and experience with tire manufacturing quality standards and requirements
Knowledge and experience with Lean Manufacturing (e.g., Six Sigma, 5S, OEE, Kaizen, etc.) principles
Ability to accomplish assignments in a logical fashion, using existing technology and standardized methodologies
Strong multitasking competency
Excellent communication/interpersonal skills as role requires global interaction for support, audits and training
Demonstrated ability to work on complex issues and to develop resolutions via in-depth evaluation of factors and/or frequent use of creativity
Ability to perform and succeed in an environment of schedule and cost pressure
Capability to professionally deal with changing priorities and requirements
Knowledge and experience of tire engineering principles and practices (e.g., equipment modifications, process improvement, etc)
Team player attitude
Objective judgment and fact-based decision making approach

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering preferred and/or equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions of this position
Minimum of 2 years manufacturing experience in similar role. Tire manufacturing strongly experience preferred
Lean manufacturing knowledge/certification a plus
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
Must be available to work hours outside of normal schedule and weekends when needed
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position will not offer visa sponsorship.

Physical Requirements and Demands

Exposure to occasionally loud noise levels
Must be able to be frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts, electrical equipment, mechanical equipment and vibration
This position will be required to work at multiple work stations
Must be able to tolerate odor from raw materials, freshly cured tires and hot materials
Ability to work in environment with limited climate control and varied temperature levels
Must be able to communicate effectively in an environment with continual noise, requiring the ability to hear, understand and communicate work instructions and directions while wearing company provided hearing protection
Must be able to be frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts, electrical equipment mechanical equipment and vibration

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance day one
401(k) eligible after one month
401(k) matching 100% on first 6%
Short-term incentive plan
Employee assistance program
Employee discounts
Life insurance
Disability insurance
Paid time off
Paid parental leave
Tuition reimbursement
Onsite fitness facility
Wellness benefits
Career advancement opportunities

This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions, it does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

Nokian Tyres is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other status protected by law.