APU MANAGER (Autonomous Production Unit)

The APU Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of production within the Surface Preparation, Automation, and Assembly areas. This role ensures that operations meet safety, quality, cost, and delivery targets while fostering a culture of continuous improvement, employee development, and operational excellence. The successful candidate will possess extensive experience managing high-volume production painting and surface preparation processes, with a strong understanding of automated manufacturing systems, paint application technologies, process controls, and quality standards.

The position is exempt under FLSA and reports to the Plant Manager

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Participate in, understand, support, and ensure compliance with all Company Safety,

• Quality, Environmental, and Regulatory policies and requirements.

• Lead and manage the daily operations of the Surface Preparation, Automation, and Assembly areas to achieve production objectives.

• Monitor, analyze, and improve key performance indicators (KPIs) related to Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, Productivity, Scrap, and Efficiency.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing principles, problem-solving methodologies, and data-driven decision making.

• Coordinate and collaborate with Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, Logistics, Human

• Resources, and other functional departments to resolve issues, improve processes, and achieve operational goals.

• Oversee production scheduling, staffing, workforce planning, and resource allocation to meet customer requirements and production targets.

• Manage and control labor, material, and operational costs while maintaining profitability and operational efficiency within the APU.

• Support the implementation of new equipment, technologies, automation systems, and manufacturing processes.

• Ensure proper staffing levels through employee development, training, coaching, performance management, and succession planning.

• Promote employee engagement, accountability, teamwork, and a positive work environment consistent with Company values.

• Maintain accurate production records, performance reports, and opera