Value Stream Leader - Aluminum Production

As a global leader in the design and manufacture of a wide range of specialty heat exchangers and heat transfer solutions, API Heat Transfer has a legacy of industry-leading performance that can be traced back more than 140 years. Throughout our history, we’ve built a corporate culture based on reliability and superior performance - from our innovative technologies to the people behind them. Experience has taught us that design and engineering expertise, supported by professionals who have a passion for their work, can bring about only one result: the ability to provide the right solutions for our customers.

Value Stream Manager

Location: Franklin, WI

FLSA Status: Exempt

Department: Operations

Reports to: Plant Manager

We’re looking for a Value Stream Leader to own end-to-end performance of our Aluminum Production value stream—furnace operations, stacking, machine operations, welding, and leak testing. In this role, you’ll lead teams across shifts, drive daily execution, and improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost through Lean problem solving and continuous improvement.

What You’ll Do

• Lead day-to-day operations for the Aluminum Production value stream (furnace, stacking, machine operations, welding, leak testing) to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets.
• Build a strong safety culture through visible floor leadership, compliance to policies, and proactive risk reduction.
• Drive quality performance—ensure products meet customer and internal requirements; lead containment, corrective action, and prevention for nonconformances.
• Own and improve key performance indicators (KPIs) such as throughput, scrap, labor efficiency, downtime, and schedule attainment.
• Lead daily management, problem solving, and root-cause analysis to eliminate bottlenecks and stabilize processes.
• Apply Lean principles to improve flow and reduce waste; lead/participate in Kaizen events and standard work improvements.
• Coach and develop supervisors, leads, and hourly team members; support training, engagement, and performance management.
• Partner cross-functionally with Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, Supply Chain, and Planning to support equipment reliability, process improvements, and new product introductions.
  
  

What You’ll Bring

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical field, or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience.
• 5 years of manufacturing leadership experience (metal fabrication or aluminum manufacturing preferred).
• Working knowledge of aluminum/metal manufacturing processes (e.g., furnace operations, welding, machining, or related disciplines).
• Proven ability to lead teams and deliver results through metrics, daily management, and structured problem solving.
• Experience applying Lean/continuous improvement methods to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a value stream-based or Lean manufacturing organization.
• Background in heat exchanger, industrial, or high-mix manufacturing environments.
• Lean/Six Sigma certification (or demonstrated equivalent experience).
  
  

Work environment

• Manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, noise, and industrial equipment; PPE required in designated areas.
• Ability to walk production areas, climb stairs/ladders as needed, and occasionally lift up to 25 lbs.
  
  

To apply

Please submit your resume and (optional) a brief cover letter highlighting your manufacturing leadership experience and Lean/continuous improvement work. If you require an accommodation during the application process, please let us know.

Ready to lead with purpose and precision? Apply today and help us shape the future of manufacturing excellence!

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