APU Operations Manager — Lean, Safety & CI

Aalberts integrated piping systems; Pageland (SC); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays

Generous paid time off

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

Aalberts IPSA seeks an experienced APU Manager to lead a machining-focused Autonomous Production Unit in a dynamic, safety-conscious environment. You will drive SQDICP metrics, oversee staffing and scheduling, and guide continuous improvement initiatives across multiple functions.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field and 5+ years of manufacturing leadership experience, preferably in machining.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Operations, Business, or related field
• 5+ years of manufacturing leadership experience, preferably in machining or high‑volume production
• Proven experience leading supervisors and large hourly teams
• Strong knowledge of machining and assembly processes, equipment, and manufacturing operations
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, and KPI management
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills in a fast‑paced environment
• Working knowledge of ERP systems and Microsoft Office tools
• Strong communication and leadership skills (English proficiency required)
• Understanding of safety regulations and industrial best practices

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop Supervisors, Team Leads, and machining associates, fostering accountability and engagement
• Drive a safety-first culture, ensuring compliance with PPE, LOTO, 5S, and environmental standards
• Own and improve APU performance across SQDICP (Safety, Quality, Delivery, Inventory, Cost, Motivation) metrics
• Monitor KPIs including scrap, downtime, labor efficiency, machine utilization, and throughput
• Ensure adherence to machining standards, work instructions, and process discipline across all shifts
• Lead daily Tier meetings, QRQC, and operational reviews to address top issues and drive corrective actions
• Drive root cause problem‑solving (e.g., 4 blocks, 5 Why, 8D) and implement sustainable corrective actions
• Ensure staffing, scheduling, and resource allocation meet production and customer delivery requirements
• Optimize machining and assembly processes including cycle time reduction, changeover improvements, and capacity utilization
• Partner with Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Planning teams to meet customer expectations
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives, including lean manufacturing, waste reduction, and layout optimization or Kaizen Workshops
• Conduct audits (Layered Process Audits) to sustain standards and operational discipline
• Develop team competency through training plans, OJT, and cross‑training programs
• Manage APU budget, resources, and performance targets, ensuring profitability and efficiency
• Support new product/machine launches, industrialization, and smooth production ramp‑ups
• Complete additional duties as assigned by your manager

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Data-driven mindset

English proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Operations, Business, or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Aalberts IPSA seeks an experienced APU Manager to lead a machining-focused Autonomous Production Unit in a dynamic, safety-conscious environment. You will drive SQDICP metrics, oversee staffing and scheduling, and guide continuous improvement initiatives across multiple functions.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field and 5+ years of manufacturing leadership experience, preferably in machining.