Description
We're looking for a SOT Operations Specialist to join our team in North America. As a key member of our operations team, you will be responsible for mitigating supply chain risk that could potentially impact Ford Motor Company's Manufacturing Operations.
In this role, you will work with and resolve a caseload of operationally and financially distressed production suppliers that require onsite support to mitigate risk. You will develop and deliver risk mitigation strategies aimed at protecting Ford's Vehicle and Powertrain production plants.
Key responsibilities include:
- Nationwide/North America Travel Required: Travel frequently (up to 75%) to support supplier operations, including occasional weekends and off-shifts
- Supplier Support & Recovery: Work directly with operationally and financially distressed suppliers, providing onsite support to stabilize production and reduce supply risk
- Leading / Facilitating immediate establishment of Interim Containment & Permanent Corrective actions, also insert Zero Loss Units and Agility - Speed of Resolution as key measurables for this role
- Corrective Action Implementation: Support and execute interim and permanent corrective actions to improve supplier performance and ensure consistent supply
- Issue Diagnosis: Analyze production, capacity, and quality challenges to identify root causes using structured problem-solving methods (e.g., 8D)
- Capacity & Risk Mitigation: Help resolve bottlenecks and constraints to prevent disruptions to production and minimize premium freight
- Onsite Assessments: Participate in supplier site evaluations to identify risks and opportunities across manufacturing and quality processes
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with internal teams and suppliers to implement practical, data-driven solutions
- Communication: Summarize issues, actions, and progress clearly for team members and leadership
Requirements include:
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Supply Chain, Business, or related field
- 5+ years of experience in Manufacturing, Supply Chain, or Operations, including troubleshooting and resolving manufacturing or supply chain issues
- 5+ years applying analytical and critical thinking to identify root causes and implement solutions using structured problem-solving methods (e.g., 8D, root cause analysis)
- Experience navigating ambiguous or evolving operational problems in time-sensitive, high-pressure, high-visibility environments
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and drive urgent resolution
- 5+ years collaborating across teams with strong communication and cross-functional teamwork skills
- Proficiency in Excel and data analysis to support operational problem solving
- Working knowledge of manufacturing processes and lean principles with practical experience applying continuous improvement practices
- Willingness to travel up to 100% and support weekends/off-shifts as needed
Preferred qualifications include:
- MBA or Master's Degree in Industrial Engineering
- Experience in automotive or supplier manufacturing environments
- Exposure to APQP, PPAP, or supplier quality processes
- Self-starter mindset with the ability to learn quickly in dynamic environments
If you're a motivated and detail-oriented professional with a passion for operations and supply chain management, we encourage you to apply!