Job Description

This position will be responsible for providing engineering and analysis, project management, and launch implementation leadership for new model programs within the IMG region. This role combines upfront engineering and analysis with a focus on ensuring successful new model launches, meeting customer expectations, and adhering to corporate safety and ergonomic guidelines. The MFE Specialist will contribute to the development and implementation of lean material flow strategies and business practices, while also providing technical expertise in material handling engineering, facility planning, and process improvements. Engineering or other technical degree required (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Packaging Engineering, Industrial Engineering). MBA or other advanced degree is a plus or Post Graduation/Specialization: Operations Research, Supply Chain Management, Logistics Engr, Packaging Engr, International Business 6-8 years of experience in program management, strategic/analytical lead roles, and project management, preferably within the automotive industry, with a strong focus on automation projects. Proficient in MS Office (MS Project, Access, Excel). Working knowledge of AutoCAD or similar CAD software. (Teamcenter, CATIA or similar widely used softwares). Good Knowledge in Kitting, Material Stream, Warehousing, Material Replenishment systems etc Experience with automation technologies (e.g., robotics, AGVs/AMRs, automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), PLC programming, HMI design). Knowledge of AI based technologies and their application in automation strategy. Prior experience in industrial engineering, material planning logistics, supply chain management, or packaging engineering. Experience in developing and implementing automation strategies in a manufacturing environment. Knowledge of manufacturing processes and material flow principles. Understanding of safety standards and regulations related to automation. General Requirements Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to interact effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. A proactive approach to identifying and resolving potential issues. Open to travel and support other regions for implementation and benchmarking Key Roles and Responsibilities of Position Lead upfront engineering and analysis for new model programs, ensuring MFE requirements are engineered, funded, and launched within affordable targets. Manage new model launches, ensuring completion as per GPDS timelines and meeting customer expectations for quality and timing. Provide technical expertise in material handling engineering, facility planning, and process improvements. Support the development and implementation of common global (lean) Material Flow Strategies and business practices, including LMM, FPS, Kitting Sequencing. Develop and maintain documentation of procedures related to Forward Model Program Planning and Launch Implementation, including VSMs and Launch Readiness Checklists. Act as a Single Point of Contact (SPOC) to liaise with local and regional IT and SPI teams to resolve plant IT systems issues related to MFE. Align local requirements with common global Manufacturing Standards and Bill-of-Processes, using the latest MFE engineering tools and benchmarking techniques. Conduct vehicle, pedestrian, and material flow/congestion/safety analyses, recommending practical solutions or automation requirements. Work cross-functionally to develop and impart knowledge transfer and training to local IMG region plants. Monitor and assess the feasibility of plant-initiated layout changes with global standards. Ensure facilities and Material Handling equipment comply with corporate safety and ergonomic guidelines. Material Flow Automation Strategy Responsibilities: Develop automation strategy for IMG, North America Programs for priority deployment based on existing material flow for all VO + PTO plants (existing new manufacturing facilities). Compare Ford regions VOME with respect to automation strategy in the areas of process, integration to manufacturing Ford systems, advance safety features, latest technologies, sourcing maintenance. Drive effective process and development of automation standards for NA and Global. Benchmark OEMs Automation strategy (Auto OEMs/ Retail sector/Best in industry) for best practices to enhance Ford automation Strategy. Work with different automation system manufacturer s, including manufacturers from low-cost countries to leverage economies of scale / sign a strategic partnership with OEMs for deployment in FNA / global deployment. Lead and develop supplier partnerships to deliver manufacturing solutions. Work with Manufacturing Engineering and IT to include all plant constraints/ challenges and IT systems interface to support Manufacturing 4.0. Develop Ford standards, driving to include in Supplier s scope and its execution. Aim to increase AI based technologies in automation strategy. Work with Ford IT to ensure interoperability with Ford s plant floor systems (SKS/SMART etc.,) and ensuring compatibility with Ford IT s long-term vision of compatibility to iERP/ SAP