Location: Sonora.

• Candidates must be willing to relocate; we offer relocation support.

?Company Overview

We are a leading global manufacturer specializing automotive industry, delivering high-quality, precision-engineered solutions to some of the world's top automotive brands. Our innovation-driven culture and operational excellence enable us to stay at the forefront of automotive manufacturing technology.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Engineering & Operations Manager to lead and oversee multiple departments within our manufacturing operations. This role requires a results-driven leader with 10+ years of experience in engineering, project management, and manufacturing within the automotive industry, with a strong background in molding, stamping, assembly automation, and cross-functional team leadership. Fluency in English is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the activities of two or more departments or sections, through subordinate managers/supervisors, focusing on results, cost control, staffing, and operational methods.
• Define and implement strategic and operational work plans aligned with company goals.
• Develop and enforce company policies relevant to engineering and operations.
• Act as the primary point of contact for senior management, customers, and stakeholders in critical or sensitive matters.

Technical & Operational Leadership

• Oversee the design, development, qualification, and continuous improvement of tooling, equipment, and manufacturing processes.
• Drive the development of new manufacturing technologies and core processes, including Molding, Stamping, Plating, Machining, and Assembly Automation.
• Define technology roadmaps and allocate appropriate resources in collaboration with functional leaders.
• Establish production standards and investment strategies to optimize product cost and capital utilization.
• Lead the transformation of manufacturing processes towards achieving Manufacturing Star Level 5 targets.
• Support new product development by ensuring design for manufacturability and leading Process FMEAs.
• Act as the bridge between product development and manufacturing engineering for seamless project execution.
• Implement Kaizen and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance quality, efficiency, and cost.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, regulatory, and customer requirements; manage documentation in systems.

Strategic & Talent Development

• Collaborate with site engineering leaders to identify and develop competencies for new technologies.
• Drive talent development programs, including apprenticeships and upskilling initiatives.
• Lead Make vs. Buy analysis and facilitate cross-functional decision-making.
• Foster a culture of innovation and process ideation in alignment with global engineering roadmaps.
• Manage departmental budgets, capital projects, and cost controls.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronic, or Materials Engineering (Master's or MBA preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in Product & Process Engineering and Manufacturing Operations in the automotive industry.
• Minimum 8 years in a leadership or managerial role, overseeing multidisciplinary teams.
• Proven technical expertise in molding, stamping, and assembly automation processes.
• Advanced proficiency in English (written and spoken); additional languages are a plus.
• Solid understanding of business models, cost analysis, and technology roadmap development.
• Proficient in statistical tools, root cause analysis, and problem-solving methodologies.
• Familiar with automotive standards such as APQP and IATF 16949.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with peers, executives, and global teams.
• Ability to define a vision, inspire teams, and drive engagement in a multicultural environment.