Production Lead/manager - Assembly Operations

Production Lead/Manager - Assembly Operations

Fictiv Exists to Enable Hardware Innovators to Build Better Products, Faster

Fictiv, coined the "AWS of manufacturing," is a leading technology company transforming the $350 billion manufacturing industry. Our cutting-edge cloud platform uses AI and machine learning algorithms to help companies build hardware at the speed of software. Come join our growing team!

We are seeking an exceptionally skilled and results-oriented Production Lead/Manager to lead our critical Assembly Operations within our high-volume, advanced manufacturing facility in Mexico. This role demands a seasoned leader with 7-10 years of progressive management experience overseeing people and complex assembly processes, specifically within multinational manufacturing environments characteristic of international companies. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of driving operational excellence, managing diverse product portfolios (e.g., consumer electronics, medical devices, clean energy, automotive components), and implementing world-class manufacturing practices. This lead/manager will be responsible for ensuring top-tier performance in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and people development within a dynamic, high-mix/high-volume assembly environment.

Strategic & Operational Leadership:

Lead and manage all aspects of assembly production, ensuring the efficient and effective execution of production schedules to meet aggressive customer demands and output targets. Develop and implement strategic production plans, capacity models, and resource allocations to optimize manufacturing flow and achieve financial objectives. Drive the systematic application of Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Kanban, Poka-Yoke, SMED, Value Stream Mapping) and Six Sigma methodologies to relentlessly pursue process optimization and waste reduction. Utilize OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), DPMO (Defects Per Million Opportunities), and other key performance indicators to monitor performance, identify trends, and implement data-driven improvements. Collaborate extensively with Engineering (Process, Test, NPI), Quality, Supply Chain, and Global Program Management teams to facilitate smooth New Product Introduction (NPI) ramps, resolve complex technical and quality issues, and ensure seamless global product transitions.

Team Development & Engagement:

Mentor, coach, and develop a high-performing team of supervisors, engineers, and production associates, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and innovation. Conduct robust performance management, talent development, and succession planning within the assembly organization. Promote a highly engaged and collaborative work environment that prioritizes safety, quality, and mutual respect, adhering to all company policies and Mexican labor regulations.

Quality Assurance & Compliance:

Champion a robust quality culture, ensuring strict adherence to industry-specific quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949 for Automotive, ISO 13485 and FDA regulations for Medical Devices). Oversee the implementation and rigorous enforcement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and quality control plans for all assembly processes. Lead root cause analysis (RCA) and implement effective Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) for internal and external non-conformances, driving towards zero-defect manufacturing.

Advanced Manufacturing & Automation:

Actively contribute to the evaluation, justification, and implementation of advanced automation, robotics, and smart manufacturing solutions to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness in assembly. Ensure proper setup, calibration, and maintenance of specialized assembly equipment and tooling.

Cost Management & Efficiency:

Manage the production budget effectively, controlling labor, material, and overhead costs without compromising quality or safety. Identify and implement cost-reduction initiatives through process improvements, yield enhancements, and material optimization. Optimize material flow on the assembly line, collaborating with the supply chain to ensure just-in-time (JIT) delivery and minimize inventory holding costs.

Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS):

Ensure a world-class safety culture, leading by example and enforcing all EHS policies, procedures, and local Mexican regulations to maintain an incident-free workplace. Actively participate in EHS audits, risk assessments, and continuous improvement programs related to workplace safety and environmental compliance.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or related field) is required. A Master's degree or MBA is highly preferred.
• 7-10 years of progressive leadership and management experience in high-volume, complex assembly operations within a contract manufacturing (EMS/ODM) or large-scale OEM environment.
• Extensive experience managing diverse product portfolios, with a strong background in at least two of the following industries: Consumer Electronics (e.g., mobile devices, computing, IoT) Medical Devices (strong familiarity with FDA QSR and ISO 13485 regulations is critical) Clean Energy (e.g., solar inverters, battery packs, EV components) Automotive (knowledge of IATF 16949 and core tools like APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, MSA)
• Certified Lean / Six Sigma Green Belt required; Black Belt certification highly desirable.
• Demonstrated expertise in implementing and sustaining Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proven ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings, schematics, and process flows.
• Experience with advanced manufacturing technologies, automation, and robotics in assembly processes.
• Exceptional leadership, coaching, and cross-functional collaboration skills, with the ability to influence and drive results in a matrixed organization.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities, with a data-driven approach.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), MES systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Fluency in both Spanish and English (verbal and written) is mandatory.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure, and constantly evolving manufacturing environment.