Director of Automation Engineering

Company Overview

Wherever you work and whatever role you fill, when you represent the Bridgestone name you know that you are a valued teammate who is part of our larger mission to “Serve Society with Superior Quality.” We start by offering each teammate more than just a salary. We provide formal training, competitive performance incentives, paid vacation and holidays, healthcare packages for full-time and part-time employees, and a 401k plan to help build your future.
We believe people can only provide superior service and quality to others when they are allowed to bring their whole selves to work and know they are supported.We believe in championing all perspectives, individuals and teams because we understand the importance of seeing the world and our business through many different lenses. We are building a team as diverse as the world we serve. So,show us what you’re made of. Show us the smart stuff, the tough stuff, the bold, beautiful and brave stuff. Because who you are is what weneed.
Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee and is the U.S. subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation headquartered in Japan. Bridgestone Americas and its subsidiaries develop, manufacture and market a wide range of Bridgestone, Firestone and associate brand products to address the needs of a broad range of customers and industries.
Job Category

R&D (Inactive)

Position Summary

We are seeking an Automation Engineering Director like you to join our growing Retread Solutions team!

As the Bandag Director of Automation Engineering, you will be responsible for assessing leading edge technologies to support development of new retread equipment, production systems, and process enhancements to drive continuous improvement and inspire the reimagination and reinvention of the Bandag process.

To be a successful candidate, will inspire fundamental change to Bandag manufacturing and propel the business into the future. This will require a deep understanding of equipment, process, and technologies coupled with an understanding of fleet and dealer requirements.

The scope of work will include a combination of bespoke development, work with sub-suppliers, and outsourcing partners. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to create and deliver a vision in a pragmatic, cost-effective, and efficient manner with the goal of helping Bandag offer the best retread process and equipment in the industry.

Collectively with our teams, we are pioneering innovative solutions to make mobility safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. If you find this opportunity compelling, we encourage you to apply.

** This position has the option to be a remote opportunity **

Responsibilities

(70%) Equipment Development and Commercialization:
Assess current equipment, process and system to identify and prioritize opportunity areas
Establish vision for next generation equipment and system considering dealer requirements and evolution of dealer retread manufacturing operations
Consider role of automation to reduce manpower requirements. This work must also be done collaboratively with current equipment R&D team, TSG leaders and dealer partners.
Work with Dealer Financial Support leader to model financial benefits and impacts of new system
Collaborate with BSEMEA equipment team to share best practices and align on equipment strategy and synergies.
Ensure all Bandag newly developed or outsourced equipment meets external and internal safety requirements.
(20%) Equipment Sourcing Support:
Support validation of new equipment – internally or externally sourced – ensuring it meets desired performance, reliability, and safety targets.
Work with vendors to make adjustments to equipment (hardware / software) to achieve Bandag-specific objectives
Support evaluation of potential equipment suppliers to ensure a diverse and reliable supplier base.
(10%) Equipment Strategy Development:
Collaborate with senior leadership to define equipment sourcing strategies that align with the company's overall business objectives, ensuring efficient dealer operations and maintaining Bandag’s competitive advantages while leveraging the strong supply-base in Europe.
Analyze market trends, industry best practices, and competitor strategies to identify opportunities and risks.
Implement innovative solutions to optimize equipment uptime, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance operational efficiency.
Minimum Qualifications

Degree in Engineering (or equivalent related expertise / experience)
10+ years of experience in the retread or equivalent manufacturing equipment related or relatable industry(ies), with a strong understanding of technical requirements and potential suppliers assessment
In-depth knowledge of equipment procurement, vendor management, and supply chain best practices.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
Effective leadership and team collaboration skills
Ability to travel to various Bandag Manufacturing facilities and dealer retread plants
Bachelor degree ; 10+ years of relevant experience including 7+ years management or leadership experience
Or Master degree; 8+ years of relevant experience including 5-7 years management or leadership experience
This Director, Automation Engineering is crucial in ensuring Bandag continues as the preeminent tire business in North America. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for reimagining and optimizing supply chain operations, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
Trust your talent; trust the journey. Be Bridgestone.
Bridgestone is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. It is our policy to consider for employment all individuals regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.
Employment Eligibility
If hired, a Form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification must be completed at the start of employment. Temporary work authorization or the need for sponsorship may disqualify you from employment.

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