Assistant Manager, Stamping Die Maintenance

Company Overview

I-PEX Singapore Pte. Ltd. was incorporated in 1979 and is a subsidiary of I-PEX Co., Ltd which is headquartered in Kyoto, Japan. We are specialising in the manufacturing of precision plastic parts and fine-pitch electronics connectors.

Job Summary

The Assistant Manager is responsible for leading and managing the Die Maintenance section to ensure the reliable and efficient operation of progressive stamping dies supporting high-speed, precision stamping production. This role involves planning and executing preventive maintenance programs, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and developing team capabilities to achieve departmental targets in quality, productivity, cost, and safety.

The incumbent will collaborate closely with Production, Engineering, Quality, and the Japan Headquarters to provide technical support, enhance processes, and support new tooling development and implementation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Die Maintenance team to ensure timely and effective maintenance, repair and troubleshooting of progressive stamping dies.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance strategies, overhaul plans and continuous improvement programmes to maximise die performance and service life.
• Analyse die failures and production issues, implement root cause analysis and corrective actions to improve quality, productivity and equipment reliability.
• Provide technical leadership, coaching and competency development for engineers, supervisors and toolmakers.
• Plan manpower, allocate resources and monitor departmental KPIs to achieve safety, quality, delivery and cost objectives.
• Work closely with Production, Engineering, Quality and Japan Headquarters on new product introduction, tooling transfer and engineering improvement activities.
• Manage maintenance documentation, work instructions and technical standards to ensure compliance with company requirements and quality management systems.
• Lead departmental initiatives in safety, 5S, ISO/IATF compliance and continuous improvement to enhance operational excellence.
• Support departmental budgeting, maintenance cost control and capital investment planning.
• Drive automation, digitalisation and productivity improvement projects to strengthen manufacturing competitiveness.

Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Tool & Die Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years' experience in precision stamping die maintenance, including at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Strong technical knowledge of progressive stamping dies, high-speed stamping processes, die design, die maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Proven leadership experience in managing maintenance teams and driving continuous improvement projects.
• Good analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and leadership skills.
• Familiar with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, 5S and workplace safety practices.
• Ability to communicate in Japanese is an added advantage to facilitate technical discussions and collaboration with Japan Headquarters.
• Responsible, proactive and able to perform in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.