IMS Gear is a leader in the development, design and production of precision actuators and related components for the Automotive Industry. Our products include functions for Steering, Door and Security systems, Motor management, Braking, and Seating. Headquartered in Germany, we have locations in Gainesville GA, Virginia Beach VA, Taicang China and Queretaro MX. Our core processes include plastic injection molding of full plastic and insert molded components, metalworking including turning, rolling, grinding, milling both CNC and conventional, and assembly processes. Visit our Website at imsgear.com for further information about our company.

Purpose of the Role

Lead and manage the plastic manufacturing area to achieve operational excellence, meet performance targets, and ensure compliance with company standards. Drive continuous improvement and foster a positive, high-performing team environment.

Required Competencies

- Mechanical, Industrial or Mechatronic Engineering with experience of 10 years
- Strong leadership and people development skills
- Solid experience in plastic manufacturing processes (injection molding, extrusion, blow molding or similar)
- Knowledge of molds, tooling and plastic material behavior (resins, additives, recycling)
- Experience with process optimization, parameters setting, and troubleshooting in plastics
- Analytical and data-driven decision-making
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks effectively
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- Able to communicate in English and the local language

Key Responsibilities

1. Operational Performance

Achieve and sustain area KPIs: Safety, Quality, On-Time Delivery, Productivity, and Cost.

- Monitor and optimize key metrics such as:




- OEE of molding/extrusion machines
- Scrap rates (start-up, process scrap, regrind levels)
- Machine downtime and changeover times (SMED)
- Cycle time and process stability
- Material consumption and yield
- Overtime, training compliance, utilization, and retention
2. Ensure adherence to production plans and efficient use of resources
3. Lead and support APQP activities to ensure on-time product launch and compliance with IMS quality standards

- Compliance and Standards

Ensure compliance with IMS Safety, Quality, and Environmental systems.

- Maintain adherence to applicable standards such as IATF 16949 and ISO 14001
- Ensure proper handling, storage, and traceability of raw materials and finished goods

- Resource Management and Prioritization

- Coordinate direct and indirect resources across production, maintenance, tooling, and quality
- Ensure availability and readiness of molds, machines, and auxiliary equipment
- Define, communicate, and follow up on priorities to maintain operational efficiency

- Leadership and Team Development

- Create a cooperative and motivating work environment
- Develop technical capabilities of the team in plastic processes
- Promote accountability, engagement, and continuous learning

- Data Integrity and Decision Support

- Ensure accuracy and timeliness of production and process data
- Use data analysis to drive decisions and identify improvement opportunities

- Problem Solving and Continuous Improvement

- Apply structured problem-solving methodologies (8D, root cause analysis, etc.)
- Lead process improvements focused on:
- Scrap reduction
- Process stability
- Cycle time optimization
- Mold and machine efficiency

- Drive continuous improvement initiatives using DMAIC, CIP, Kaizen, and lean tools

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📌 Manufacturing Manager, plastic manufacturing processes (Durazno Pata)
🏢 IMS Gear, S.A. de
📍 Durazno Pata