Paint Center Director

The Assembly Plant Paint Director leads all operations within the paint department, applying Stellantis Production Way principles to meet production and cost objectives. This role fosters a culture of continuous improvement across safety, quality, cost, and delivery metrics.

Working closely with senior plant leadership, the Paint Director drives workforce engagement to enhance overall efficiency and product quality. The position oversees a large, multi-shift unionized operation, managing both hourly and salaried personnel-including teams in Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering.

Key responsibilities include ensuring high-quality paint application processes, maintaining compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and achieving production targets.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the paint department team, including supervisors, and operators
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and teamwork
• Provide training and development opportunities for staff to enhance skills and performance
• Oversee daily operations of the paint department, ensuring production schedules are met
• Monitor and optimize paint application processes to achieve high-quality finishes
• Implement and maintain lean manufacturing principles to improve efficiency and reduce waste
• Ensure all painted components meet quality standards and customer specifications
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for quality issues
• Collaborate with quality control teams to maintain consistent standards
• Enforce strict adherence to safety protocols and environmental regulations
• Ensure proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials
• Conduct regular safety audits and risk assessments
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and cost reductions
• Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and best practices in paint application
• Lead initiatives to implement new technologies or methods to enhance productivity
• Manage budgets, equipment, and materials for the paint department
• Coordinate with maintenance teams to ensure equipment reliability and minimize downtime
• Collaborate with other departments to align production goals and priorities

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in paint operations within a manufacturing or assembly plant
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interface with various levels of employees within all areas of the Plant from hourly represented employees to Senior Leadership as required
• Ability to build effective business relationships with plant leadership and customers
• In-depth knowledge of paint application processes, equipment, and materials
• Familiarity with safety and environmental regulations related to paint operations
• Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills
• Proficiency in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies
• Ability to manage and coordinate complex projects while maintaining simplistic communications to others
• Must have a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in a technical field
• Previous experience working in an automotive manufacturing unionized environment
• Experience with automated paint systems and robotics
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with experience in Six Sigma or similar quality improvement methodologies
• Strong aptitude for troubleshooting and root cause analysis