Value Stream Manager; VSM

Position: Value Stream Manager (VSM)
We are seeking a hands-on, Gemba-driven Value Stream Manager (VSM) to lead and optimize daily operations for the OEM, Backflow Direct, Automated Control Valve (ACV), and Riser production lines. These high-mix, medium-volume value streams support Make-to-Stock (MTS), Make-to-Order (MTO), Assemble-to-Order (ATO), and e-commerce SKUs with tight lead times (24–48 hours). The VSM will supervise a team of 30–40 associates through direct management of Production Leads.

This leader will own safety, quality, delivery, cost, and labor performance across multiple processes and work closely with Planning, Materials, EHS, Continuous Improvement (CI), and Engineering to meet customer expectations and drive improvement. The role requires active daily floor management, Lean leadership, and strong performance management capability.

This position reports to the Plant Manager. This role is onsite and based in Woodland, CA.Primary

Job Duties and Responsibilities
* Own and run Tier 1 and Tier 2 Daily Management systems and visual boards.
* Lead frontline problem-solving using 5-Why, Fishbone Diagrams, and Pareto Analysis.
* Facilitate Standard Work Kaizens with support from CI and EHS for safety, ergonomics, quality, and materials flow. Develop and use SW Playbooks for different customer demand (takt) scenarios.
* Partner with moonshine CI teams to design and implement process improvements.
* Ability to use data to guide problem-solving and drive progress.

Required Qualifications
* Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and root-cause problem-solving skills.
* Proven ability to lead teams and manage complex production environments.
* Excellent communication and organizational skills.
* Proficiency in ERP systems and manufacturing software.
* Experience supervising 20-40 direct reports.

- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, or related field with at least 4 years of supervisory and Lean manufacturing experience, – OR –Associate's degree with 6+ years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, including direct supervisory responsibility and Lean exposure, and 4+ years of experience in manufacturing leadership.

Preferred Qualifications
* Lean Certification (Green Belt or higher, Internal certifications from companies like Toyota, Danaher etc. will be a plus).
* Experience with Assembly or Warehouse Management.
* Familiarity with ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems and standards.
* Experience supervising 20-40 direct reports.

- Experience with high-mix, low to medium volume, Make/Assemble to Order & Custom manufacturing environments.

General Applicable Company Competencies  
* Commitment to Watts’ values of integrity, accountability, continuous improvement and innovation, and transparency.
* Punctuality and dependability.
* Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing work priorities and stressful conditions.
* Adherence to all personnel policies, procedures, and standards of process as implemented by Watts.
* Maintain productive and collaborative relationships with other Watts employees.
* Adherence to Watts’ seven cultural beliefs:
Growth Mindset, Customer-Focused Innovation, Constant Communication, Clear Goals, Collaborate Globally, Be Inclusive, and Take Action.
* While performing the job duties, you will be working on-site at a manufacturing facility and will perform your duties on the plant floor and in an office environment. When present on the manufacturing floor, you will be required to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. You will be required to work at the Woodland location (Monday – Friday). Your scheduled work hours will be communicated to you by your manager.
*** Physical Requirements**:
* Ability to remain seated at a desk or workstation for extended periods.
* Ability to perform repetitive tasks like typing on a keyboard or using a mouse for extended periods.
* Ability to physically move around the office, organize or transport files, packages, or other office-related materials.
* Ability to read documents, use a computer, and perform data entry tasks.
* Ability to communicate clearly with management and coworkers, particularly in meetings or phone calls.
* Ability to operate…