Kautex Development Program: Operations Pathway; Muskegon, MI

Job Description:

2026 Kautex Development Program – Operations Pathway (Muskegon, MI)

Kautex is a global company with over 30 plants in 13 countries. As a leading Tier One automotive supplier, we are a pioneer in the design and manufacturing of plastic fuel systems and beyond. From battery enclosures for use in hybrid and full battery electric vehicle applications to autonomous cleaning systems, we are advancing solutions for the era of new mobility.

Our portfolio also covers high-quality industrial packaging and cast camshafts. Embracing the transformative venture, Kautex is part of a network of global businesses, offering some of the most advanced technologies and services the world has ever seen.

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12‑month minimum program duration with the purpose of preparing you for progression in the Operations function(s).

• Operations Pathway for program includes areas of skill building in:
  Automation / IIoT, Materials Management, Quality, AME / ME.
• Complete 3 distinct and meaningful operational sub‑functional assignments aligned to your developmental goals and strengths assessment.
• Program completion will include assessment for readiness to the next level of Operational responsibility, including your application to roles which meet your career aspirations.
• Gain expert knowledge of the operational environment and all interfaces and organization structure of the company, processes, and methods.
• Performance coaching and rewards model applies annually through Performance Management Process.
• Coaching on functional/technical, as well as professional development offers through Mentoring, Program Sponsor, and Functional Leader(s).
• Technical skill development and specialized training will be offered through annual training plans and development assessments.
• Create and maintain a community with all Kautex Development Program participants across the globe, with the purpose to share knowledge and experiences and build future relationships in the company.
• Provide continuous feedback to program Sponsors to continually improve program experience.
• Complete projects defined by Management and documented in performance management system during the program.
• Career owner is responsible for own development and having a meaningful career file, asking for feedback, seeking learning and career opportunities.
• Support common tasks within the Team (location/global) e.g., best‑practice sharing, organise social team or networking events, and Trainee Newsletter.
• Communicate Career Aspirations – follow the repatriation process and discuss with managers & HR.
• Work in line with all EHS Standards and Textron Ethics and Values and comply with all IATF 16949/ISO and ISHA standards.

• Have a complete understanding of daily operational tasks and processes of the functions/areas within the Operations pathway.
• Understanding of Operational Key Performance Indicators driving towards 0-0-0.
• Provide operations expertise in a professional manner during customer visits and audits, with the team as well as in collaboration with other departments (e.g., Quality/Engineering, etc.).
• Gain knowledge of, and compliance to, the customer specific requirements.
• Understand and apply customer OEM standards.
• Application of VAVE (Value Analysis, Value Engineering) process during development of Kautex products.
• Support EHS activities within the department to ensure both a safe workplace and adoption of safe working practices.
• A requirement to follow IATF 16949 standards together with following the Kautex and Customer guidelines.
• Understand the technical link between Kautex development teams and the customer.
• Application of Continuous Improvement/Lean tools and techniques to drive Operational Performance Improvement (6S, Practical Problem Solving and Recurrence Prevention, Value Stream Mapping, Elimination of Waste, TPM).

• Support Logistics concepts (internal, supplier, customer) for new programs coming to the plant.
• Gain knowledge of Customer Demand plan, Production plan, Supplier Scheduling, and Inventory Management (accuracy, right safety stock, risk management, etc.).
• Special freight organization, root cause analyses,…