Job Description

Role Overview

We are seeking an Entry-Level Production Area Leader / Value Stream Leader to support and drive operational excellence within their assigned production area. This role is responsible for achieving KPI targets, supporting business strategy, and leading Team Leaders while cultivating a culture of safety, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.

This position requires hands-on leadership, strong mechanical understanding, an interest in operations, and the ability to coach and influence in a fast-paced automotive manufacturing environment. Ideal for early-career engineering talent with leadership potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver KPI targets aligned with business and people strategy.

• Ensure standardization of policies, procedures, and standard work.

• Lead and coach Team Leaders, reinforcing cultural and performance expectations.

• Maintain a strong floor presence to address safety, quality, delivery, and productivity concerns.

• Execute leadership standard work, audits, and checklists.

• Drive effective communication, escalation, and cross-team alignment.

• Review production priorities and support execution of startup and PVD board meetings.

• Ensure completion of TPM, autonomous maintenance, and preventive maintenance tasks.

• Gather, analyze, and validate production and LTA data across the value stream.

• Manage employee performance, attendance, training hours, and development plans.

• Plan workforce scheduling, overtime, vacations, LOAs, and holidays.

• Expedite production, prototype, and PPAP components when required.

• Lead continuous improvement activities (Kaizen, 5-Why, Practical Problem Solving).

• Ensure proper use and maintenance of process control documentation.

• Support troubleshooting of equipment and processes within trained skillsets.

• Assist in corrective actions for internal issues and customer complaints.

• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949, environmental, health, and safety standards.

• Create and maintain a strategic master plan to achieve KPI results.

Qualifications & Skills

• 1–3 years of experience

  in manufacturing (assembly or machining).

• Mechanical background with strong interest in operations.

• Kowledge on ISO 14001, OSHA 18001, and IATF 16949 environments (preferred for early-career talent).

• Prior leadership or supervisory experience (academic, project-based, internship leadership accepted for entry-level).

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering preferred; Operations, Engineering, or related fields also acceptable.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Proficiency in MS Office and timekeeping systems.

• Strong analytical, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent people leadership and interpersonal skills.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining professionalism.

• Experience leading teams through change and continuous improvement initiatives.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation package.

• Comprehensive benefits starting the first month, including:

• 401(k) with employer match.

• Career growth opportunities within a global automotive organization.

• A culture driven by innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

You should be proficient in:

• Machine Building/Assembling
• ISO 9001 Certification Experience
• Operational Metrics & KPI Management
• Mechanical Assembly Skills