Operations Engineering Lead

## Operations Engineering Lead Apply:
USA - AL - Decatur:
Full time:
Posted Today:
R020597

Job Description Do you want to be developed into a leader within a world-class manufacturing environment? This role is designed to be a
** key stepping stone into operations leadership**.As a
** Operations Engineering Lead
** in our
** Decatur, AL facility**, you will play a critical role supporting our
** PAN and carbon fiber manufacturing operations**, helping produce advanced materials that power next-generation aerospace applications. This is a hands-on, high-impact role where engineering meets operations on the production floor.

This role is intentionally designed for engineers who are ready to
** expand beyond technical execution**—developing the skills, business acumen, and leadership presence needed to transition into
** front-line leadership and operations management
** supporting critical aerospace programs.
** What You Will Do
*** Lead and optimize day-to-day manufacturing operations by improving production flow, methods, and maintaining equipment performance to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets
* Serve as a primary engineering resource to operations, driving rapid troubleshooting and resolution of production, equipment, and process issues to minimize downtime
* Lead and execute process improvement initiatives focused on yield, throughput, cycle time reduction, and overall plant efficiency using structured problem-solving methods
* Spearhead troubleshooting and partner with line engineers to drive process continuity
* Run daily start meetings and provide guidance
* Support next-generation factory and automation implementation activities
* Plan, lead, and implement new line startups, qualifications, and engineering changes, ensuring minimal disruption to production and sustained performance gains
* Drive root cause analysis for complex product, process, and equipment issues; implement and sustain corrective and preventive actions across the operation
* Partner closely with operations, maintenance, quality, and supply chain, and own evaluation and continuous improvement of equipment, field installations, and maintenance strategies to maximize uptime and asset utilization
* Develop and leverage process data and feedback systems, lead small- to mid-scale capital and continuous improvement projects, and provide technical leadership on the floor by mentoring engineers and operators while representing manufacturing in cross-functional initiatives and plant priorities
** Where This Role Will Take You
** This role is designed to build the capabilities needed for operations management and site leadership. You will gain exposure to operational decision-making, including prioritization, resource allocation, and performance management and position yourself for future progression into front-line leadership, operations management, or broader site leadership roles.
** Qualifications
* ** Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or related field) with 10+ years of experience,
* OR* master’s degree in engineering with 7+ years of experience.
* Experience in manufacturing
* Interest and capability to grow into an operations management career path
* Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred
* Demonstrated experience leading projects and continuous improvement initiatives preferred.
* Exposure to cross-functional leadership and mentoring

Eligible candidates must be a:  U.S. citizen, U.S. national, person lawfully admitted for permanent residence, temporary resident under sections 210(a) or 245(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, person admitted in refugee status, or person granted asylum. Hexcel (NYSE: HXL) is a global leader in advanced composites technology,…