Pilot Team

Futaba North America Group; Vincennes (IN); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive manufacturing company based in Indiana seeks a team member for its pilot team, focusing on the development and implementation of new manufacturing processes and technologies. The role involves collaboration with engineering and production teams to optimize workflows and ensure quality adherence. Candidates should possess a degree in Engineering or Manufacturing and demonstrate excellent problem-solving and communication skills within a dynamic environment. Competitive compensation and growth opportunities are available.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in manufacturing software applications.
• Willingness to take initiative on projects.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with teams to pilot new manufacturing processes.
• Conduct testing and evaluate prototype components.
• Analyze production data for optimization opportunities.
• Participate in quality audits and root cause analyses.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and regulations.

Skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Proficiency in MS Office Suite

Collaboration skills

Attention to detail

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Manufacturing

Job description

Description

Futaba is a leading automotive manufacturing company dedicated to delivering high-quality parts to our customers worldwide. Our commitment to innovation, efficiency and excellence drives us to continually push the boundaries of automotive manufacturing. Therefore, we are looking to expand our newly enhanced pilot team.

As a valuable member of the pilot team, one will play a crucial role in the development and implementation of new manufacturing processes, technologies, and products. One will work closely with cross-functional teams to pilot new initiatives, optimize production workflows, and ensure the successful launch of new vehicle models. This department would be responsible for all associated KPIs and helping ensure all parties are within project parameters, up to and including the removal of project roadblocks by elevating to management as deemed appropriate for the pilot teams overall project success.

This position is responsible for strict adherence to FIA company policies, procedures, and performance expectations by managing and coaching staff members, and by leading by example.

• Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to pilot new manufacturing processes and technologies, ensuring seamless integration into existing production lines.
• Conduct thorough testing and evaluation of prototype components, and manufacturing equipment to identify areas for improvement and ensure adherence to quality standards on new module launches.
• Continuously analyze production data and performance metrics to identify opportunities to process optimization, efficiency gains and cost savings.
• Work closely with engineering, design, procurement, and supply chain teams to communicate pilot findings, provide feedback, and drive alignment on project objectives.
• Participate in quality audits, inspections, and root cause analyses to identify and resolve manufacturing issues, ensuring the highest level of product quality and customer satisfaction.
• Develop and deliver training materials for production staff on new process, equipment, and best practices. Maintain accurate documentation of pilot activities, results, and lessons learned.
• Adhere to all safety protocols, guidelines, and regulations to ensure safe working environment for yourself and your team members. Identify and address potential safety hazards proactively with alignment with our Safety Department.
• Monitor schedules, activities, and follow through from all stakeholders with an emphasis on shop floor conditions daily and provide direction to all project stakeholders as needed to maintain project momentum.
• Develop and maintain a working management board with all necessary KPI, Action Plans and Progress, etc. updated and available for reporting on a routine basis.
• Manage employee relations in coordination with related department management, and human resources.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

This position is for one model assignment, after that project is complete you go back to your previous job or equivalent (meaning same rank, however, could be a different location – rotation).

• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and manufacturing software applications.
• Must be willing to take the initiative on new projects.
• Must be able to work the company’s required overtime.
• Must comply with FIA’s Attendance Policy.
• Strong Problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Abnormal Handling and Control Methodologies (5S)
• Standard Work Instruction (SWI)
• Motivation to Learn New Skills
• Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field, or related work experience and/or the combination of education and work experience.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential job functions of this position.

• Work Environment: Work is typically performed in both an office and production environment.
• Must be able to use a variety of tools and equipment such as computer terminal for data input, copy machines, calculator and any other equipment related to functional area.
• Must be able to use software includes the use of Windows Operating System, MS Office Applications (Word, Excel, Power Point, Access database, etc), and Internet.
• Noise Levels: Moderate Noise.

The physical tasks described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Lifting up to 10 pounds – must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.
• Physical Sight – Able to read and analyze data in hard copy and on a computer screen.
• Verbal & Written Communications – Able to efficiently present complex matters to audience with little technical knowledge and to executive management.
• Telephone Communications – Able to communicate verbally using a telephone.
• Multitasking – Able to manage multiple work projects simultaneously.