About Optimus Technologies
Optimus Technologies is a clean energy technology company based in Pittsburgh, PA. Optimus manufactures the Vector System, an advanced fuel system technology that enables diesel engines to operate on 100% biodiesel. The Vector System is designed for medium and heavy-duty fleet applications, where emissions reductions are challenging or impossible to achieve in a cost-effective manner through other means. The Vector System integrates into existing operations to facilitate a seamless transition to low-carbon fuels.Optimus is a venture backed startup with investors such as Mitsui Group and Chevron and our Vector System is in use with leading municipal and private fleets throughout the country enabling them to achieve near-zero carbon emissions while reducing their fuel and fleet operating costs.Find out more at optimustec.com, on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Job DescriptionOptimus seeks a dynamic, organized Director of Production on-site to help us to reach our bold growth goals assisting fleets in reducing their carbon emissions and achieving environmental sustainability goals. This is a full-time, salaried position ($155,200-$216,800) with healthcare benefits, generous PTO package, equity, and up to a 3% match on retirement funds, based in Pittsburgh, PA with travel requirements of up to 25%. The Director of Production will be on an aggressive growth track and responsible for developing and implementing strategies to optimize our manufacturing, supply chain, and vendor management operations.
This role will manage and lead cross-functional teams, ensure the efficient production of Optimus’ products and drive continuous improvement across the organization. The position will require collaboration with electrical and mechanical engineers and third-party manufacturers. The Director of Production must have an efficiency-first mindset and have a strong grasp on project management, inventory lead time, production scheduling, quality control and continue process improvement.Optimus is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. People of color, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, veterans and members of other historically disenfranchised groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
Consistent with legal requirements, we also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories. Responsibilities
- Develop, plan, organize, and coordinate all operations, budgets, and inventory schedules necessary to ensure manufacturing targets are met
- Set and communicate KPIs and goals for productivity, efficiency, and employee satisfaction with the production team
- Build organizational structures as well as hire and train employees in the Production Department
- Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement that allows the production team to work towards the company’s goals
- Analyze and develop reports regarding supply chain, production, non-conformance issues, and other relevant metrics to the Production Department. Communicate and report out on the department’s activities across all levels within the company based upon data and metrics developed and aligned in collaboration with the leadership team
- Implement lean manufacturing methodologies as well as allocate resources to ensure the efficient use of resources and personnel
- Develop and maintain production documentation necessary to adhere to industry best practices and ensure continuity across all manufacturing operations and, as necessary, ensure consistency for manufactured products by contract manufacturers
- Define and promote quality control specifications to ensure a product quality mindset is embedded across the department and company.
- Implement in-process product inspection standards and devise testing methods and procedures for ensuring accurate disposition of finished product through quantitative evaluation tests, methods, and procedures.
- Collaborate with the Engineering Department to review bills of materials, shop orders, and necessary production documents for accuracy and efficiency
- Identify opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency improvement within the supply chain, negotiating favorable contracts with vendors, supplier, and carriers.
Qualifications & Experience
- Minimum 10+ years in a lean manufacturing leadership/management role
- A history of, or experience with setting up production lines from prototype to full-scale manufacturing
- Experience in procurement activities with ability to manage hundreds of vendors, 3rd party contractors, and machine shops
- Experience with automotive components, sub-assemblies, assemblies, and kits
- The willingness and experience to work with cross-functional teams
- The ability to read and interpret shop drawings and schematics
- Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) software experience
- Aptitude for, and understanding of, manufacturing concepts, machinery and tools
- Enthusiasm to roll your sleeves up and help lead current production efforts with an eye towards establishing formal production processes and procedures
- Strong ability to adapt to changing sets of priorities and shift between multiple simultaneous tasks
- Experience with or strong desire to dig in within a startup environment
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with experience in reporting on key production metrics
Other Job Requirements
- A passion for alternative energy solutions and commitment to the importance of the climate crisis
- Exposure to outdoor, warehouse, and shop working conditions
- Ability to work around a variety of particulates, lubricants, and chemicals
- Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
- Domestic and potential international travel, as required (up to 25%)
