Job Title

Position: AMPP and Fuel Cell Operations ManagerDepartment: Manufacturing EngineeringReporting To: Senior Director, Technology, Manufacturing EngineeringJob Location: LIFT ALMMII Headquarters 1400 Rosa Parks Blvd Detroit, MI 48216Scope of Work & Purpose:  We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee the production of custom metal alloys in various forms including castings, powder, rods, and wire. Additional Operations responsibilities include overseeing the standing up, commissioning, and runoff of a pilot production line for producing bipolar plates for hydrogen fuel cells. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing all aspects of the respective manufacturing processes, including but not limited to business operations standup, the definition of the manufacturing process plan, manufacturing execution system standup and usage, and material procurement, all the way to final product delivery. This role requires strong leadership skills, technical expertise in manufacturing engineering, and a commitment to maintaining high safety standards in a hazardous environment. The AMPP and Fuel Cell Operations Manager (AFOM) will be a member of the LIFT Manufacturing Engineering team in a hands-on environment to support delivery against key technical programs and objectives, leveraging a variety of traditional and advanced manufacturing tools and technologies. AFOM will also interface with the LIFT Virtual Engineering team and Program Management Office (PMO) as program requirements dictate, exchanging data and measurements, as well as executing activities informed by the virtual team and PMO.KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIESProduction Management:Coordinate and optimize production schedules to meet internal and external customer demands while maximizing efficiency and minimizing waste.Oversee the operation of advanced manufacturing equipment used in processing metal alloys into components and test articles, as well as the production of bipolar plates for hydrogen fuel cells.Ensure that all products meet quality standards and customer specifications through rigorous testing and analysis.Support the quoting process for new orders, ensuring all costs are adequately captured to provide accurate cost estimates.Support budgeting activities, ensuring all costs, margins, and revenue are adequately managed and meeting budget. Material Management:Procure raw materials required for alloy production and maintain adequate inventory levels.Manage the storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous materials and waste in compliance with regulatory requirements.Manage the storage, packaging, and shipping of finished goods to customers. Safety and Compliance:Develop and implement safety protocols to minimize risks associated with producing metal powders and handling hazardous materials.Develop and implement safety protocols to minimize risks associated with producing bipolar plates for hydrogen fuel cells.Conduct regular safety inspections and audits to identify potential hazards and ensure adherence to safety regulations.Provide training to employees on safety procedures and best practices. 5S Implementation:Lead efforts to implement and sustain a 5S program to promote organization, cleanliness, and efficiency in the workplace.Establish procedures for sorting, set in order, shine, standardize, and sustain to create a safe and organized work environment. Team Leadership:Supervise and mentor a team of engineers and technicians, providing guidance and support to ensure their safety, professional development, and productivity.Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement within the team. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES: Education: A bachelor's degree in engineering, manufacturing, materials science, or a related field is essential. An advanced degree or additional certifications in operations management or occupational safety can be advantageous.Experience: Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management, ideally within the metal alloys manufacturing industry. Direct experience with the production of custom metal alloys, including casting, powder processing, and component fabrication, is highly desirable.Technical Knowledge: Technical expertise in metal alloy production processes and equipment is desirable. Candidates should have an understanding of metallurgy, materials characterization, and advanced manufacturing technologies relevant to the production of metal alloys.Safety and Compliance: A thorough understanding of safety protocols and regulatory compliance related to hazardous materials handling is essential. Candidates should have experience implementing safety programs and ensuring adherence to relevant regulations such as OSHA standards.Leadership Skills: Excellent leadership qualities are necessary to effectively manage a team of engineers and technicians. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to inspire and motivate team members, foster a culture of collaboration, and drive continuous improvement munication and Problem-Solving: Strong communication skills are vital for effectively coordinating production schedules, addressing technical challenges, and liaising with internal stakeholders and external partners. Candidates should also possess excellent problem-solving abilities to troubleshoot issues and implement effective solutions in a dynamic manufacturing environment.Adaptability and Resilience: The metal alloys manufacturing industry can be subject to fluctuations in demand, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. A good candidate should be adaptable and resilient, capable of managing change and driving innovation to maintain competitiveness and sustainability. About LIFT:LIFT, operated by the American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute (ALMMII), is a public-private partnership to develop and deploy advanced lightweight materials manufacturing technologies, and implement education and training programs to prepare the workforce. ALMMII was selected through a competitive process led by the U.S. Department of Defense under the Lightweight and Modern Metals Manufacturing Innovation (LM3I) solicitation issued by the U.S. Navy's Office of Naval Research. ALMMII is one of the founding members of Manufacturing USA, a federal initiative to create regional hubs to accelerate the development and adoption of cutting-edge manufacturing technologies.