Manufacturing Launch Lead - APQP, Lean & Automation

Ainsley Search Group; Reading (Berks County); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Ainsley Search Group is seeking a Manufacturing Launch Manager to plan, organize, and manage the manufacturing launch function across assembly and production processes. You will provide engineering direction to maximize efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness while maintaining safety and schedule adherence.

Responsibilities include leading launch activities, ensuring APQP compliance, supporting PFEP/PPAP, developing KPIs, and partnering with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Supply Chain

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Technology, or a related technical field.
• 8+ years of progressive experience within manufacturing, engineering, or a combination of engineering and manufacturing; 10+ years is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience leading manufacturing projects or programs.
• Hands-on experience with new product development, manufacturing launches, production launches, or modified product launches.
• Previous experience providing direct or indirect leadership to engineering, manufacturing, or technical teams.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and the relationship between Engineering and Manufacturing Operations.
• Ability to manage projects against timelines, budgets, KPIs, risks, and deliverables.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day leadership and direction for Manufacturing Launch activities.
• Lead the execution of new product, modified product, and production launches, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Drive APQP compliance and ensure required launch deliverables are completed according to established program timelines.
• Support PFEP and PPAP activities throughout the launch process.
• Develop and maintain reporting related to launch readiness, KPIs, project performance, risks, and recovery plans.
• Lead Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and build-process activities to improve manufacturing flow and operational visibility.
• Partner with Manufacturing and Engineering teams to develop and optimize production and assembly processes.
• Analyze workflow, labor requirements, equipment needs, space utilization, and plant layouts to improve safety, quality, productivity, and efficiency.
• Develop and support CAPEX requests for manufacturing equipment, assembly processes, tooling, and other production-related investments.
• Maintain and improve manufacturing processes involving equipment, tooling, gauges, jigs, fixtures, and production systems.
• Support the design and implementation of automated manufacturing and assembly processes.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, Supply Chain, Materials, Safety, Maintenance, and Facilities.
• Coordinate with external suppliers, vendors, and sister facilities to support successful project and launch execution.
• Participate in Gemba walks and provide hands-on support to production teams during launches and operational challenges.
• Support Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, cost, efficiency, and productivity.
• Identify project and launch risks and develop appropriate short- and long-term recovery plans.
• Provide leadership with regular updates regarding project milestones, launch readiness, KPIs, risks, budgets, and overall progress.
• Lead and influence technical and cross-functional teams to ensure accountability for project deliverables.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required to support manufacturing and business objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Project leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Problem-solving

Lean Manufacturing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Technology/related field

Tools

AutoCAD

Job description

Ainsley Search Group is seeking a Manufacturing Launch Manager to plan, organize, and manage the manufacturing launch function across assembly and production processes. You will provide engineering direction to maximize efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness while maintaining safety and schedule adherence.

Responsibilities include leading launch activities, ensuring APQP compliance, supporting PFEP/PPAP, developing KPIs, and partnering with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Supply Chain