Primary FunctionThe CI Manager leads the identification, development, and execution of cost-out initiatives across the NAWT organization. This role partners cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and Product Management to deliver measurable cost reductions while maintaining or improving product performance, quality, and customer value.
Responsibilities- Lead VAVE Program Strategy. Develop, prioritize, and communicate the VAVE cost-out roadmap using data-driven business criteria.
- Execute Cross-Functional Cost-Out Projects. Drive component redesigns, value analysis, DFM/DFA activities, and supplier-focused cost reduction.
- Financial Modeling & Reporting. Create detailed cost models for material, labor, overhead, tooling, and logistics; validate savings with Finance.
- Guide structured problem solving, including the 8-Step Problem Solving methodology, RCA, A3 development, and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Stakeholder Collaboration. Serve as central communication point between engineering, operations, sourcing, and leadership teams.
- Governance & Compliance. Maintain full documentation, ensure ECN compliance, and champion standardized VAVE processes.
- Lead and Develop Technical Talent. Direct and mentor engineering project managers, designers, and practitioners. Set expectations for execution discipline, documentation rigor, and cross-functional partnership.
- Resource Planning & Alignment. Manage resource allocation across VAVE initiatives. Partner with functional engineering leaders on staffing alignment and project review structures.
- Technical Governance & Mentorship. Lead teams in DFM/DFA, cost modeling, prototyping approaches, and validation. Coach emerging engineers to build long-term organizational capability.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or related Engineering field.
- 5+ years of experience in Continuous Improvement, Value Engineering, or Manufacturing Engineering.
- Proven success delivering cost-out projects and cross-functional engineering initiatives.
- Strong analytical capability and proficiency in cost modeling.
- Expertise in structured problem solving (DMAIC, A3, RCA, etc.).
- Experience leading or coordinating cross-functional teams.
- Strategic, data-driven decision making.
- Technical depth in manufacturing and product engineering.
- Strong communication and executive presentation skills.
- Leadership and coaching capability for engineering managers, designers, and practitioners.
- High accountability, ownership, and execution discipline.
- Commitment to continuous improvement and cross-functional alignment.
ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:
- Lean/Six Sigma certification.
- SAP or relevant ERP experience.
- Multi-site or global supply chain experience.
- Demonstrated ability to influence without direct authority.
We OfferCompetitive compensation package and comprehensive benefits plans which include medical and dental insurance, company-sponsored life insurance, retirement security savings plan, short- and long-term disability programs and tuition assistance.
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