Advandced Engineering Manager

Blue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world - 25 million children twice a day - making them the most trusted mode of student transportation. The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 20,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses in operation today. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions. For more information on Blue Bird's complete product and service portfolio, visit www.blue-bird.com.

We are pleased to share that we have a career opportunity for an Advanced Engineering Manager as a strategic part of the Blue Bird Information Technology Team. This role involves the design, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing systems to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure product quality. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in engineering principles, a passion for technology, and a drive to continuously improve manufacturing operations.

JOB SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Executive Director of IT, this role is responsible for leading the planning, execution, and delivery of manufacturing engineering projects. The ideal candidate will be responsible for the successful integration of engineering and manufacturing processes, overseeing the development and implementation of manufacturing methods, processes, and operations for new or existing products. This role requires a blend of technical engineering expertise, project management skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and manage the entire lifecycle of manufacturing engineering projects, from concept through design, development, implementation, and post-launch evaluation.
• Develop project plans, including scope, schedule, cost estimates, and resource plans, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, quality, and supply chain teams to integrate new products or processes into the manufacturing operation.
• Identify, evaluate, and implement process improvements and technological advancements to enhance productivity, quality, and cost-effectiveness while ensuring compliance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies throughout project execution.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for project stakeholders, providing regular updates on project status, milestones, and risk assessments.
• Manage and motivate project teams, assigning tasks and responsibilities to ensure project objectives are met on time and within budget by facilitating cross-functional team meetings to review project status, resolve issues, and coordinate activities.
• Conduct feasibility studies and risk analyses to assess project viability and potential impacts on production and product quality.
• Perform other related duties as assigned

ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design and implement new manufacturing technologies, processes, and equipment to increase production efficiency and quality.
• Work closely with product development teams to ensure manufacturability of new products.
• Conduct research on emerging manufacturing technologies and assess their applicability to our operations.
• Analyze and improve existing manufacturing processes to minimize waste, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
• Provide technical support and training to manufacturing personnel on new technologies and equipment.
• Monitor the performance of manufacturing equipment and systems, conducting regular assessments and implementing improvements as needed.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment, and technology.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong analytical skills with a focus on data-driven decision making.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
• A commitment to continuous learning and staying abreast of the latest manufacturing trends and technologies.
• Proficiency in project management software tools, CAD software, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

EDUCATION AND EXPEREINCE:

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with at least 5 years in a project management role.
• Experience in implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement projects.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and technology integration.
• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification or equivalent is preferred.

INCLUDES

• Some Travel Required (up to 25%)
• Continued Professional Development

*The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Blue Bird's winning culture is fueled by our ability to respect, encourage, celebrate and embrace the unique perspectives of all of our employees. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer who is committed to providing all of our employees with a work environment free of discrimination or harassment. We base our employment decisions on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, national, social or ethnic origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, past or present military service, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire.