What are the responsibilities and job description for the Value Stream Leader - Copper/Brass Production position at API Heat Transfer Career Center?
Value Stream Leader – Copper/Brass Production
Franklin, WI
General ThermoDynamics (An API Heat Transfer Company)
Lead a Critical Production Value Stream
General ThermoDynamics is seeking a results-driven Value Stream Leader to oversee our Copper/Brass production operations. Reporting directly to the Plant Manager, this role is responsible for the end-to-end performance of a key manufacturing value stream, including safety, quality, delivery, cost, and people leadership.
This is a highly visible leadership role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environment and is passionate about driving operational excellence and team development.
What You’ll Do
Own the Value Stream
- Lead all aspects of Copper/Brass production from planning through execution
- Ensure alignment with customer demand and plant performance objectives
- Drive results across key metrics: safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and cost
Lead & Develop Teams
- Direct, coach, and develop supervisors, leads, and production employees
- Build a high-performance culture rooted in accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement
- Strengthening frontline leadership capability and support succession planning
Drive Operational Excellence
- Champion Lean manufacturing tools such as:
- Value stream mapping
- Standard work
- 5S and visual management
- Identify and eliminate waste, bottlenecks, and inefficiencies
- Improve throughput, workflow, and material flow across operations
Promote Safety & Quality
- Lead safety initiatives and ensure compliance with all policies and OSHA standards
- Partner with Quality to reduce defects, scrap, and rework
- Drive root cause analysis and sustainable corrective actions
Collaborate Cross-Functionally
- Partner with Engineering, Planning, Supply Chain, and Maintenance to optimize operations
- Coordinate with supporting fabrication operations (Iron Ridge) to ensure seamless material flow
- Support new product introductions and process improvements
Manage Business Performance
- Monitor and control labor, productivity, and operational costs
- Analyze performance data and implement action plans to drive improvement
What We’re Looking For
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 5 years of manufacturing leadership experience
- Proven success leading supervisors and managing multi-functional teams
- Strong understanding of Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement
- Demonstrated ability to drive results across safety, quality, delivery, and cost
Preferred:
- Experience with copper and/or brass manufacturing processes
- Background in heavy manufacturing or heat exchanger production
- Lean/Six Sigma certification
- Experience managing a value stream or business unit
Why Join General ThermoDynamics?
- Key leadership role with direct impact on plant performance
- Opportunity to lead a critical, high-visibility production area
- Collaborative, team-driven culture
- Competitive compensation and benefits
- Career growth within API Heat Transfer
Work Environment
This position operates in a manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, heat, and material handling. Regular presence on the production floor is required. PPE must be worn.
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