Mechanical Program Lead III

This position is in the Engineering Project and is focused on capacity additions and the associated line installations & debug from a mechanical perspective.

• Lead and/or participate on manufacturing engineering projects and lead/support teams for the purposes of capacity installations, equipment debug, and preparing line/associated parts for Operations Receivership.
• As a leading team member, provide advanced mechanical discipline to proactively identify technical problems through root cause understanding coupled with robust industrialized solutions relative to line debug and installs.
• Leverage knowledge of mechanical and electrical engineering, machining & designing processes to improve performance of equipment/manufacturing process.
• Lead/support the development and execution of project plans to deliver timely error-free mechanical support for multi-line equipment installations
• Experienced with working along-side vendors and suppliers to resolve technical issues to protect scope, timing, and cost metrics.
• Ability to work, collaborate, cooperate, and utilize Best Practice across various functional groups on a daily basis to accomplish goals

• Maintain safe work practices, inform others of hazardous conditions or personal practices as expressed on project team.
• Manage and lead installation and debugging activities to meet milestone & timeline objectives for successful capacity adds.
• Design & implement mechanical solutions and process changes to improve capability of manufacturing equipment.
• Lead in or solve mechanical and process issues through data analysis, experience, and collaboration with subject matter experts
• Manage spare part identification and storeroom entry as recommended by suppliers or peer engineers, noting available spares within (2)-plant footprint.
• Develop and update engineering and operations documentation.
• Support training for operations workforce regarding equipment or operations changes
• Perform advanced troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repair of mechanical systems, equipment, and machinery (e.g., pumps, motors, conveyors, hydraulics, pneumatics, etc.).
• Align, test, and calibrate mechanical systems after installation.
• Diagnose complex mechanical failures and recommend effective solutions.
• Interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals to support troubleshooting and repair activities.
• Identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability, efficiency, and safety.
• Collaborate with other departments to implement process improvements.

Qualifications

Required

Education:

• High School degree will be considered with significant hands‑on experience

Required Years and Area of

Experience:

• 3+ years' experience in new equipment installations in manufacturing environment. Start‑up experiences a plus
• Experience in fast‑paced changing environment with multiple priorities

Required Skills:

• Ability to learn new technology and processes quickly
• Strong technical fundamentals with mechanical engineering skills
• Ability to multitask and prioritize work on an independent basis in a fast‑paced project install manufacturing environment.
• Proficient with PC software including Microsoft Office Suite
• Expertise in mechanical systems such as hydraulics, pneumatics, bearings, gear systems, and conveyor systems.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and schematics.
• Proficiency in using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.
• Strong problem‑solving, analytical, and critical‑thinking skills.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and practices in an industrial setting.
• Basic computer skills for maintaining records and using CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems).

Certifications:

• Mechatronics trades highly desired
• Relevant mechanical or industrial certifications (e.g., Millwright, HVAC, or Welding) are a plus.
• OSHA or other safety certifications may be required.

Desired

Skills:

• Hands on experience in commercial manufacturing equipment
• Project leadership/management experience (including milestone management and financial ownership)
• Experience in vendor/supplier management on‑site/off‑site
• Experience with CAD
• Detail oriented and able to perform with limited supervision.

Soft Skills:

• Leadership experience in technical project management
• Ability to work & effectively collaborate within a team
• Ability to allocate/supervise resources to accomplish aggressive project milestones & timeline within specification and costs.
• Able to prioritize and multitask
• Communicate effectively both verbal and written

Travel Requirements:

• Project locations will range from Newton NC and Hickory North Carolina.

Hours of work/work schedule/flex‑time:

• 40 hrs. (overtime expected). Due to the project timing; overtime and periodic off‑hours coverage may be necessary to successfully complete workload and interact with other team personnel.