Manufacturing Systems Maintenance & MES Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Manufacturing Systems Maintenance & MES Manager

Location: Louisville, KY | Employment: Direct-Hire | Schedule: Day Shift | Compensation: Up to $125k annually (based on proven work history)

Your day, your impact

Step onto the production floor and into the data. You’ll start by reviewing dashboards you’ve built from multiple production databases, scanning for patterns in OEE, scrap, waste, and safety metrics. You’ll partner with Process Engineering, Production, IT, and Maintenance to scope improvements to the Manufacturing Execution System (MES), then move from concept to code—tuning interfaces with QAD, PLCs, and Electrical Test systems, refining master data and process models, and ensuring transactions and user interfaces support flawless execution.

When issues arise, you dig into MES logic and connected applications to diagnose communication or process faults, and you coordinate quick, documented fixes. You plan and run integration acceptance tests, manage configuration changes, and author validation protocols that keep everything compliant. Along the way, you coach technicians on machine operations and diagnostics, mentor peers on systems and software, and drive cost-effective upgrades to equipment and apps to support zero-downtime goals.

What you’ll own

• Design and maintenance of reports/dashboards leveraging data from diverse production databases.
• Day-to-day MES production support: QAD, PLC, and Electrical Test interfaces; MES master data and process modeling; transactions/UI; database and reporting.
• Development, modification, and debugging of MES logic and related IT applications to improve equipment integration and performance.
• Root-cause analysis and resolution of process and communication issues across connected equipment.
• Authoring/executing software validation activities; creation of test documentation and training materials.
• System configuration, monitoring, error correction, and integration acceptance testing with required documentation.
• SQL development (queries, stored procedures) for reporting and functional enhancements; support of web applications and solutions.
• Cross-functional coordination (IT/MES with internal and external teams) to achieve zero-downtime objectives.

Who you are

• 7–10 years in high-volume manufacturing with hands-on engineering and equipment maintenance leadership.
• 5–9 years in the automotive sector.
• Strong command of electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Organized, decisive leader with strengths in planning, prioritization, delegation, and accountability in fast-paced environments.
• Data-driven mindset with experience in process control and change management.
• Proficient with internet- and PC-based tools to capture, analyze, and report operational data.
• Prepared for extended hours during equipment downtime or urgent customer needs.
• Willing to support other YFAI plants as needed.
• Able and willing to travel and work at customer sites, including industrial plants that may require climbing, lifting, or working in confined spaces.

Standards we live by

• Quality Systems: understand, apply, and meet all function-related requirements.
• Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS): uphold all applicable EHS responsibilities.
• Product Safety: follow all function-specific product safety practices.
• Compliance: meet all role-related compliance requirements.
• Information Security: protect IT/Information Security and the confidentiality of YFAI information.
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures; maintain professional, courteous interactions with customers, suppliers, vendors, and colleagues at every level.
• Maintain predictable attendance and arrive ready to work at your assigned location (plant, corporate office, or remote).
• Flex to support overtime or additional hours as needed to meet commitments.

Hiring process

A successful candidate will be subject to a background check and must receive satisfactory results of the same, as a condition of joining the team.

By applying, you attest that the information you submit is true and complete. Providing false or misleading details may result in withdrawal of an offer or termination following your start date.