Production Engineer Manager

Degas/EOL Part Leader Full Time Warren, OH, US

Ultium Cells Overview:

Ultium Cells, LLC. is a joint venture Lithium-ion automotive battery cell manufacturing plant between LG Energy Solution, Ltd., and General Motors. This high-technology plant is a new construction that will have the latest in battery cell manufacturing technology. This $2.3 billion investment will be among the largest battery cell manufacturing plants in the world. Ultium Cells will produce battery cells for General Motors’ North American electric vehicle applications. Ultium Cells’ partners include LG Energy Solution, Ltd.; the world’s largest manufacturer of automotive battery cells, and General Motors; a global company committed to delivering safer, better and more sustainable ways for people to get around.

Position Description:

The Degas/EOL Part Leader is responsible for leading Degas/EOL production operations in Formation process to achieve production targets through stable and consistent process control. To accomplish this, the role provides technical and organizational leadership across process optimization, defect analysis, continuous improvement initiatives, and 4M change validation. The manager also champions data-driven decision-making among engineers through the use of statistical tools, big data analytics, and AI-based solutions. Partnering closely with Product Development, Operations, Equipment, Vision, IT, Quality, and other cross-functional teams, this role drives improvements in product quality, manufacturing efficiency, and customer satisfaction while cultivating a culture of operational excellence. Occasional on-call support is required.

Job Responsibilities:

This role is responsible for leading Degas/EOL Part and achieving production and yield targets without compromising quality. It involves close collaboration with Equipment, Vision, Quality, and other cross-functional teams to achieve departmental goals and identify opportunities for future improvement. Additional responsibilities are as follows:

• Achieve monthly and annual Production and Yield targets in Degas/EOL process as defined by key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Communicate production performance, risks, and improvement strategies to the Formation Team Leader
• Lead and mentor Degas/EOL engineers while driving cross-functional collaboration across Product Development, Operations, Equipment, Vision, IT, and Quality teams
• Lead failure analyses to identify root causes of production loss and defects using Six Sigma methodologies (8D, 5-Why, Fishbone)
• Lead the implementation, validation, and optimization of production solutions, along with the associated technical decision-making process
• Optimize process parameters and production specifications using Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology in Degas/EOL process and maintain them using RMS
• Oversee the development, implementation, and maintenance of standardized work instructions and related training materials to ensure operational safety, consistency, and efficiency
• Manage warehouse assets, including but not limited to cells, measuring instruments, and spare parts
• Validate machine readiness by verifying the IT system, PP (Process Parameter), IP (Install Parameter), and cell quality prior to commencing mass production
• Validate 4M (Man, Machine, Material, Method) changes prior to implementation in mass production
• Minimize Non-Conformance Reports (NCR) or SAR issued by Quality Assurance and drive timely resolution to prevent long-term inventory
• Monitor process capability using SPC, DaVinci, and Power BI
• Collaborate with global LG Energy Solution battery manufacturing sites to share knowledge and best practices related to the Degas/EOL process
• Foster a proactive quality culture through coaching and continuous improvement
• Lead the development of AI-based solutions to improve productivity and reduce quality issues
• Additional duties as assigned

Qualifications and Competencies:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology required
• 3+ years of experience in battery production required, preferably within the Formation process (Degassing, End-of-Line)
• Proven experience of leading task forces to improve production or yield
• Ability to validate machine readiness by assessing process and quality data results
• Results-driven, with a strong sense of accountability and ownership over KPIs and production objectives
• Demonstrated success improving productivity through OEE analysis
• Demonstrated experience optimizing process parameters using Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology
• Proven ability to identify quality and process control failures and implement effective corrective/preventive actions
• Experience in adhering production documentation such as Control Plans and PFMEA
• Experience working with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
• Experience developing and updating Training Instruction Sheets (TIS) and related training materials
• Proficiency in data-driven analysis using SPC, Minitab, and DaVinci or comparable statistical tools
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills, with the ability to identify root causes through data analysis, evaluate production performance, and apply structured problem-solving methodologies
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, technical report writing, and verbal communication
• Strong collaborator, able to work effectively across teams and functions to achieve shared goals and targets
• Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt) preferred

Total Rewards Information:

We offer market-competitive compensation including base pay and incentive compensation opportunities based on the achievement of Company goals. We offer employees paid time off to refresh and recharge. Our total rewards program is designed to enrich your life at work and includes the following benefits:

• 100% Employer paid Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Generous paid holidays
• Tuition Assistance for continuing education
• Vehicle Discount Program on General Motors branded vehicles
• Communication Stipend for Personal Cell Phone

Ultium Cells LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer:

We extend equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual's age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy status, marital status, military or veteran status, genetic disposition or any other reason protected by law. Ultium Cells will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which Visa-sponsorship will be provided. Individuals who need sponsorship for work authorization, now or in the future, are not eligible for hire for this role. Employee may be exposed to or working with hazardous materials and/or hazardous waste. Upon hire, employee will receive initial Environmental training over RCRA, SWPPP, SPCC, and emergency escalation. Annual refresher training will be completed every year after to fulfill the requirements of 40 CFR. Other training to be provided as required.