Manager, SMT Unit

A Career at HARMAN

As a technology leader that is rapidly on the move, HARMAN is filled with people who are focused on making life better. Innovation, inclusivity and teamwork are a part of our DNA. When you add that to the challenges we take on and solve together, you’ll discover that at HARMAN you can grow, make a difference and be proud of the work you do every day.

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced SMT Operations Manager to lead and continuously develop our Surface Mount Technology manufacturing organization.

In this strategic leadership role, you will be responsible for overseeing production, engineering, planning and maintenance functions while ensuring operational excellence, customer satisfaction, continuous improvement and cost competitiveness. You will play a key role in driving manufacturing performance, supporting new product introductions, and developing high-performing teams across multiple functions.

Key Responsibilities:
- Operations Leadership
Lead and develop SMT manufacturing operations, including production, engineering, planning and maintenance teams.
Ensure safe, efficient and high-quality manufacturing processes.
Drive operational excellence through effective resource planning and utilization.
Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork and continuous improvement.
- Production & Performance Management
Ensure production plans are achieved while meeting quality, delivery and productivity targets.
Optimize manufacturing performance through process improvements and operational discipline.
Monitor key performance indicators and implement actions to achieve or exceed business objectives.
Support the resolution of operational challenges and drive sustainable corrective actions.
- Cost & Efficiency Improvement
Manage departmental budgets and operational expenditures.
Identify and implement opportunities to improve productivity and reduce manufacturing costs.
Drive initiatives focused on labor efficiency, yield improvement and waste reduction.
Lead continuous improvement projects to enhance overall operational performance.
- Quality & Customer Focus
Ensure high customer satisfaction through consistent delivery and quality performance.
Support the investigation and resolution of customer and internal quality issues.
Drive root-cause analysis and effective corrective and preventive actions.
- New Product Introduction & Project Support
Lead the manufacturing readiness of new products and technologies.
Support product transfers, capacity expansion and process implementation projects.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to successfully launch products into production.
Provide operational leadership for customer-related manufacturing projects.
- People Leadership
Lead, coach and develop a team of managers and specialists.
Conduct performance evaluations and support employee development.
Build strong collaboration across manufacturing, supply chain, quality and support functions.
Promote employee engagement and a high-performance culture.

Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management or a related field.
Several years of leadership experience in electronics manufacturing or a similar high-volume production environment.
Strong understanding of SMT processes and manufacturing operations.
Proven experience in production management, operational excellence and continuous improvement.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Experience managing budgets and driving cost improvement initiatives.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Fluent English language skills.

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma or other continuous improvement methodologies.
Background in leading new product introductions and manufacturing transfers.
Experience working in an international manufacturing environment.

What We Offer:
A strategically important leadership role in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
Opportunity to shape operational strategy and drive business performance.
International exposure and collaboration with cross-functional teams.
Professional development and career growth opportunities.
Competitive compensation and benefits package.

HARMAN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.