As a Project Engineering Director, you will oversee some of LaFrance China’s BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) projects. These are specific, leverage and impactful projects aimed at producing long term Results for operational effectiveness and efficiency, and profitability.

By having these projects run through a separate structure from normal day to day business activities it allows for proper focus and capacity to maintain structural tension on the desired Results. Projects will range from automation of existing manual or semi-manual processes, projects focused on Sustainability (materials, processes), projects focused on new technologies (dispensing, painting, assembly, stamping, packaging, etc.) to product line costing model projects.

Candidate will work closely with the VP of China Operations as well as with LaFrance team members working in LaFrance Shenzhen Plants, the LaFrance Zhongshan Plant, as well as at LaFrance supply base vendors. Ability to communicate project status clearly through reporting and presentations is required. Project discussions will also include the US based LaFrance management and team members.

The successful Project Director must be highly motivated, results focused, possess a drive for excellence and be able to work together with various departments.

Work Location
Based out of Shenzhen, China with some travel to Zhongshan, China. Also, possibility for travel to LaFrance’s global headquarters in Concordville, PA.

Communication/Language
This position requires fluent English speaking and writing capabilities. Ability to communicate in Mandarin is a plus but not a requirement.

Position Reporting
This position will report directly to the VP of China Operations, located at our Shenzhen, China Asia headquarters.

Qualifications
Significant experiences in project, engineering, operational leadership, and business management roles, including:
• Direct experience managing metal fabrication and part finishing operations.
o Including blanking, embossing, printing, painting, plating, assembly, and packaging.
o Logistics, materials, purchasing, engineering, QA, and manufacturing.
• Experience in operations which produced custom products of various quantities.
o Experience in adapting manufacturing processes to meet specific custom product requirements.
• Leading project management functions.
o Develop or improve manufacturing processes.
o Implement new customer products into manufacturing.
o Increase operation efficiency or plant output.
• Complex product designs and bills of materials
• Best in class manufacturing processes; including automation and semi-automation.
• Excellent teamwork skills and leadership skills.
• Strong communicator with well-developed presentation and negotiation skills.
• Passion for interpreting, analyzing, and providing information for excellent decision making.
• Growth mindset and strong drive for continuous learning.
• Experience and proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office applications

Education Level
Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering

Work Experience
Candidate will have 5 to 10 years’ experience in a manufacturing operations’ environment.

Compensation Package
To be reviewed with candidate based on candidate’s experience and fit for the position.