Manufacturing Operations Specialist- Components

Manufacturing Operations Specialist
- Performance Components

This role is responsible for managing camshaft cores and spool inventory to support the production of UGLs (Unground Lobes). This role ensures proper core selection, spool utilization, and production scheduling to meet demand while minimizing “no core” situations.

The position works cross-functionally with Sales, Engineering, Production, and external vendors to align inventory, forecasting, and manufacturing execution. In addition to planning responsibilities, the role provides hands‑on support in finishing and secondary machining operations as needed.

Responsibilities:

Core & Spool Optimization

• Determine optimal cam core fit based on UGL requirements.
• Cross‑reference available cores to reduce “no core” occurrences.
• Monitor spool usage relative to UGL demand.
• Develop and maintain spool production schedules based on usage trends.
• Leverage existing in‑house spool inventory to meet current and projected UGL needs.
• Create and maintain UGL schedules based on historical usage and sales forecasts.
• Coordinate spool preparation to ensure timely grinding and finishing operations.
• Align material availability with downstream journal grinding and finishing.
• Communicate with vendors regarding purchased spools.
• Monitor inbound spool timing and availability.
• Ensure purchased materials align with projected UGL demand.

Engineering & Development Collaboration

• Work with Engineering to develop new UGL configurations for customers.
• Assist in transitioning new lobe designs into production.
• Support prototype and specialty cam builds.

Production & Shop Support

• Collaborate with production personnel on manual journal grinding to support finished UGL output.
• Assist with secondary operations including:
• Sand blasting
• Thread chasing
• Drilling for pump drives

Qualifications:

• Experience in camshaft manufacturing, engine components, or precision machining.
• Strong understanding of cam cores, lobe geometry, and grinding processes preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Experience in production scheduling and inventory planning.
• Strong organizational and cross‑functional communication skills.
• Comfortable working in both a planning and hands‑on shop environment.