Operations Engineering Lead

Job description

Do you want to be developed into a leader within a world-class manufacturing environment? This role is designed to be a key stepping stone into operations leadership . As a Staff Manufacturing Process Engineer in our Decatur, AL facility , you will play a critical role supporting our PAN and carbon fiber manufacturing operations , helping produce advanced materials that power next-generation aerospace applications. This is a hands-on, high-impact role where engineering meets operations on the production floor. This role is intentionally designed for engineers who are ready to expand beyond technical execution —developing the skills, business acumen, and leadership presence needed to transition into front-line leadership and operations management supporting critical aerospace programs. What You Will Do Lead and optimize day-to-day manufacturing operations by improving production flow, methods, and maintaining equipment performance to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets Serve as a primary engineering resource to operations, driving rapid troubleshooting and resolution of production, equipment, and process issues to minimize downtime Lead and execute process improvement initiatives focused on yield, throughput, cycle time reduction, and overall plant efficiency using structured problem-solving methods Spearhead troubleshooting and partner with line engineers to drive process continuity Run daily start meetings and provide guidance Support next-generation factory and automation implementation activities Plan, lead, and implement new line startups, qualifications, and engineering changes, ensuring minimal disruption to production and sustained performance gains Drive root cause analysis for complex product, process, and equipment issues; implement and sustain corrective and preventive actions across the operation Partner closely with operations, maintenance, quality, and supply chain, and own evaluation and continuous improvement of equipment, field installations, and maintenance strategies to maximize uptime and asset utilization Develop and leverage process data and feedback systems, lead small- to mid-scale capital and continuous improvement projects, and provide technical leadership on the floor by mentoring engineers and operators while representing manufacturing in cross-functional initiatives and plant priorities Where This Role Will Take You This role is designed to build the capabilities needed for operations management and site leadership. You will gain exposure to operational decision-making, including prioritization, resource allocation, and performance management and position yourself for future progression into front-line leadership, operations management, or broader site leadership roles. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or related field) with 7+ years of experience, OR master’s degree in engineering with 5+ years of experience. Experience in manufacturing Interest and capability to grow into an operations management career path Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred Demonstrated experience leading projects and continuous improvement initiatives preferred. Exposure to cross-functional leadership and mentoring Eligible candidates must be a: U.S. citizen, U.S. national, person lawfully admitted for permanent residence, temporary resident under sections 210(a) or 245(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, person admitted in refugee status, or person granted asylum. Hexcel (NYSE: HXL) is a global leader in advanced composites technology, a leading producer of carbon fiber, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry. With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in the manufacturing of advance composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs and engineered core. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices and R&T centers around the globe. Become a part of the “strength within.” Hexcel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.