Contract Specialist

Technical Operations Manager Responsible for leading manufacturing readiness, quality execution, and operational excellence across Fluence's internal teams and global contract manufacturing partners. This role ensures successful New Product Introduction (NPI) ramp, production readiness, and consistent product quality through structured processes aligned with APQP and advanced manufacturing frameworks. The position requires strong cross‑functional leadership, working closely with Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Contract Manufacturing partners to ensure product designs are effectively transitioned into scalable, high‑quality manufacturing operations. Key Responsibilities Lead and develop a team of engineers responsible for manufacturing quality, process readiness, and operational excellence across internal teams and contract manufacturing partners. Own execution of NPI production ramp and manufacturing readiness in accordance with Fluence internal procedures and the APQP framework. Establish and maintain quality control plans, manufacturing specifications, and acceptance criteria to ensure consistent product quality across global manufacturing sites. Oversee NPI validation builds, pilot runs, and manufacturing test readiness, coordinating closely with Engineering, Supply Chain, and Quality teams. Develop and support customer‑facing presentations outlining APQP processes, manufacturing readiness milestones, and product validation and test criteria. Assist Fluence test engineers in the design of manufacturing test plans, including ITP, FAT, and QCP. Support PFMEA reviews for new products in collaboration with Process Engineering and horizontally apply lessons learned into quality control plans. Map existing workflows and lead continuous improvement initiatives to standardize and streamline manufacturing processes. Develop, implement, and maintain standard operating procedures for manufacturing assembly processes. Required Qualifications and Experience Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related discipline. Minimum of 7 years of experience in quality manufacturing, with strong emphasis on NPI execution. Extensive experience developing and implementing APQP with contract manufacturers. Prior experience leading teams of 5 or more engineers in manufacturing quality or operational excellence initiatives. Working knowledge of ISO standards and experience supporting certification management. Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC) principles; automated manufacturing experience is a plus. Demonstrated knowledge of continuous improvement, Lean manufacturing, and 5S methodologies. Ability to work independently and provide executive‑level project updates as required. Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office (advanced Excel focus), ERP systems, Quality Management Systems, and manufacturing databases. Experience applying Six Sigma philosophy and quality methodologies. Additional Skills Experience working with global, multi‑region contract manufacturing partners. Strong cross‑functional leadership and stakeholder management skills. Data‑driven problem‑solving mindset with strong analytical capabilities. Ability to manage complexity and multiple priorities in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. Our Culture At Fluence, our culture is the foundation that drives our ambitious growth strategy and fuels our mission to transform the future of energy. Our core cultural pillars empower us to innovate, collaborate, and lead with purpose, ensuring we continue to deliver unparalleled value to our customers and the world. Unleash Voices – Every voice matters. We encourage openness, active listening, and decisive action to create a culture where everyone has the opportunity to contribute to our success. Customer Fluent – Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to delivering exceptional value that exceeds expectations by understanding our customers' needs and adapting swiftly to meet them. Infinite Impact – We are committed to creating the impossible. We push boundaries to deliver sustainable, game‑changing solutions that shape a brighter, more energy‑efficient future for all. All In – We are all in for growth. Our teams are relentlessly focused on identifying and seizing opportunities that propel us forward, embracing an ownership mindset. Equal Opportunity Employer Fluence is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law. Work Authorization To join our team, you must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout your employment, without the need for employer sponsorship. Fluence does not sponsor work visas for this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr