Machining Operations Leader: Startup & Scale

Vulcan Elements; Benson (NC); On-site; USD 180,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Vulcan Elements in Benson, NC seeks an experienced Operations Leader to build and scale its Machining Operations for American rare-earth magnets. You will own equipment commissioning, process qualification, and the ramp from startup to full-rate production.

This role designs the shift model, cell structure and technician progression; writes training programs; ensures safety, OEE, quality, and budget controls; collaborates with Manufacturing Engineering, Capital Execution, and Automation to

Responsibilities

• Own machining process startup end to end — from equipment specification review to rate ramp.
• Partner with Manufacturing Engineering, Capital Execution and Automation & Digital Manufacturing on tooling strategy and cell layout.
• Lead first-article inspection, process capability studies and CpK qualification for each operation.
• Define coolant, handling, tooling and abrasive management systems with consumable strategy and vendor relationships.
• Define lot flow, WIP staging and buffer strategy with Production Controls; verify during construction.
• Drive ramp from first qualified part to full rate across nine production lines.
• Design Machining Operations organization: shift model, cell structure, span of control, and leadership layers.
• Define technician roles and progression across CNC machining, grinding, coating, tumbling, packaging and inspection.
• Own safety performance and culture; partner with EHS on hazard analysis and startup safety procedures.
• Own OEE, quality metrics and continuous improvement; establish loss taxonomy and measurement baseline.
• Own machining operations budget: labor, tooling, consumables, and overhead; manage headcount and costs.

Job description

Vulcan Elements in Benson, NC seeks an experienced Operations Leader to build and scale its Machining Operations for American rare-earth magnets. You will own equipment commissioning, process qualification, and the ramp from startup to full-rate production.

This role designs the shift model, cell structure and technician progression; writes training programs; ensures safety, OEE, quality, and budget controls; collaborates with Manufacturing Engineering, Capital Execution, and Automation to