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Job Overview
The Value Stream Senior Manager will lead manufacturing operations for our Weld & Heavy Fabrication Value Stream, driving Safety, Law, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SLQDC) while developing high-performing teams and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Leading a large, complex manufacturing operation, you'll partner with cross-functional teams to drive operational excellence. Working closely with Production, Manufacturing Engineering, Planning, Quality, Safety, and other business partners, you'll lead daily operations, achieve key performance indicators, and drive strategic initiatives that support Komatsu's commitment to Lean Manufacturing and the Komatsu Way.
This is an exciting opportunity for a manufacturing leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys developing high-performing teams, and is passionate about driving continuous improvement across a complex Weld & Heavy Fabrication value stream.
Key Job Responsibilities
- Lead manufacturing operations within the Weld and Heavy Fabrication Value Stream while driving operational excellence and continuous improvement.
- Foster a Zero Harm safety culture and ensure a safe work environment for employees and visitors.
- Lead and influence a cross-functional matrix organization, partnering with Production, Manufacturing Engineering, Planning, Safety, Quality, and other functional teams.
- Drive Lean Manufacturing, Visual Factory, GEMBA, and continuous improvement initiatives using Komatsu Way principles.
- Manage production performance through KPI dashboards, cost center performance boards, and structured Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA) processes.
- Develop and manage annual financial business plans, production budgets, and capital expenditures.
- Lead production scheduling, staffing, capacity planning, inventory optimization, and material flow to meet customer demand.
- Coach, develop, and support supervisors and employees while planning workforce needs and succession.
- Administer the collective bargaining agreement and partner with Human Resources on employee relations matters.
- Champion new product introduction (NPI), manufacturing readiness, process improvements, and operational excellence.
- Ensure compliance with quality, safety, and environmental standards while driving continuous improvement through Lean, Kaizen, PDCA, Value Stream Mapping, and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Maintain a strong customer focus while ensuring on-time delivery and exceptional product quality.
Qualifications/Requirements
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree required.
- Minimum of 10 years of manufacturing experience and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum 5 years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience, including supervising employees or serving in a comparable management role.
- Demonstrated experience leading manufacturing operations in a fast-paced production environment.
- Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, engineering drawings, structured bills of materials, and ERP systems.
- Experience managing production performance through KPIs, budgeting, and financial planning.
- Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement methodologies, root cause analysis, and corrective action processes.
- Experience administering or working within a union manufacturing environment.
- Strong leadership, communication, problem-solving, and project management skills.
- Ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive results across a matrix organization.
- Willingness to travel up to 10% domestically and internationally as business needs require.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related technical field.
- Experience leading Value Stream or production operations in heavy manufacturing.
- Knowledge of Department of Transportation (DOT) and Association of American Railroads (AAR) regulations.
- Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems.
- Background in safety leadership, risk assessments, and environmental compliance.
- Experience with Capital Expenditure (CapEx) planning and budget management.
- Six Sigma, Kaizen, Lean Manufacturing, or other continuous improvement experience.
- Demonstrated ability to lead organizational change while developing high-performing teams.
Company Benefits
Komatsu provides an extensive and robust employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members. We embrace a positive and empowering employee experience with a culture that prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Health benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA, wellness programs, etc.
- 401k and/or employee savings programs
- Employee time off (vacation and designated holidays)
- Employee and family assistance programs
- Disability benefits
- Life insurance
- Employee learning and development programs
Diversity & Inclusion Commitment
At Komatsu, we come from diverse backgrounds, with unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions. We are committed to creating a workforce that is reflective of the communities we work and live in. We believe that our people are part of our shared purpose. Connected by our core values of ambition, perseverance, collaboration and authenticity, we are committed to continually advancing in our support of diversity and inclusion. United, we are on a journey towards a sustainable future that creates value together.
Company Information
Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more than 140 countries. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Since the company’s founding in 1921, Komatsu has been committed to supporting individuals and communities through job training, skills development and giving back. As a Komatsu employee, you will be encouraged to grow alongside our global company, contributing to a more sustainable future for all. If you are looking for a company that values your talent and potential, join Komatsu to be a part of something big and help advance modern society. Learn more at www.komatsu.com.
EEO Statement
Komatsu is an Equal Opportunity Workplace and an Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.