MES System IT Manager

Role Overview

The MES (Manufacturing Execution System) is a core manufacturing system that manages and monitors production processes, collects shop floor data, and provides real-time visibility into manufacturing operations.

The MES Manager is responsible for leading the design, implementation, operation, and continuous improvement of MES for manufacturing plants. This position requires strong technical expertise, leadership, and business understanding to ensure stable system operation, drive process optimization, and support production activities.

This role serves as both a technical leader and operational manager, overseeing MES governance across multiple plants while leading the System Section as a functional head.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES (To perform within this position successfully, the incumbent must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other duties may be assigned.)

• Lead the analysis of business and manufacturing requirements and define MES solutions aligned with operational needs
• Oversee system design, configuration, and customization of MES applications
• Ensure validation, testing, and readiness of MES systems prior to production deployment
• Lead MES implementation and deployment across manufacturing plants
• Manage integration between MES and related systems (ERP, SCADA, PLC, and automation systems)
• Oversee system testing, troubleshooting, and issue resolution during implementation
• Take full ownership of MES system performance, availability, and operational stability
• Manage system downtime, incident tracking, and non-operation issues
• Ensure timely resolution of system errors and production-related issues
• Coordinate system upgrades, patches, and security improvements
• Manage MES Operators to ensure system operation aligns with production schedule
• Oversee MES Operator staffing, shift coverage, and daily operation management to ensure continuous system support aligned with production requirements
• Oversee MES database performance, stability, and integrity across systems
• Analyze production processes and MES data to identify improvement opportunities
• Drive system-based process improvements, including automation and efficiency enhancement
• Review, prioritize, and implement user requirements for MES improvements
• Lead communication and collaboration with Production, Quality, Maintenance, Engineering, ERP, and IT teams
• Manage development request intake, prioritization, and decision-making
• Coordinate system change requests and business requirements
• Ensure alignment of MES functionality with operational and business needs
• Serve as Program Manager for MES systems across multiple plants
• Manage system versions, feature alignment, and rollout strategies
• Ensure consistency and standardization of MES functions across sites
• Govern system lifecycle and change management processes
• Lead system development and enhancement projects as Project Manager
• Manage project scope, schedule, resources, risks, and deliverables
• Ensure successful deployment and stabilization of MES projects
• Ensure system documentation is properly managed (configuration, procedures, troubleshooting guides)
• Oversee MES user training and standard operating procedures
• Establish governance for system usage and knowledge management
• Serve as Head of System Section, responsible for MES and system team management
• Manage team workload, performance, and capability development
• Manage system operation contracts, vendor coordination, and cost/payment processes
• Oversee outsourcing services related to system operation
• Take ownership of system issue management, escalation handling, and operational reporting

AUTHORITY & SCOPE

This role operates within defined corporate policies and procedures and exercises judgment appropriate to its level of responsibility. The position may influence decisions related to functional operations, processes, or recommendations and escalate matters as required

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Yes

Qualifications (The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required and preferred for this position.)

Required Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience
• Minimum 5 years or more of experience in Manufacturing Systems / MES
• Minimum 3 years or more of experience in SQL usage or DBA-related roles

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Experience in MES system management, project management, or system leadership roles
• Experience supporting systems in manufacturing or production environments

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and systems
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Experience in MES system improvement and requirement development
• Knowledge of programming and database management (MS-SQL, C#, JAVA)
• Experience in system and database performance optimization
• Experience in interface development for equipment automation
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively
• Strong leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills

• Experience in automotive or manufacturing environment preferred

Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:

• none

Working Conditions: This position is primarily office-based and may require occasional travel or extended hours based on business needs. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals to perform essential functions