The Value Stream Manager (VSM) leads the planning, scheduling, and execution of manufacturing operations within their value stream. He/she is responsible for cost-effective planning, processing, and production. This role will be the direct manager for each Shift Supervisor within their value stream. The VSM contributes to the success of Dakota Bodies Liberty operations by ensuring products are manufactured with uncompromised safety and the highest quality while being produced on-time, within budget.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Always promotes a safe working environment.
- Ensures production is carried out according to high quality standards set forth by the company.
- Training and development of VS team members. Ability to create effective teams and develop next level talent.
- Communicates professionally with appropriate team members and leadership to understand schedule priorities and react accordingly.
- Works with Maintenance team to accommodate routine and annual maintenance activities.
- Ensure efficient production scheduling to achieve plant production targets.
- Identifies opportunities for cost control and works to implement them with support from the Assistant Plant Manager and Operations Director.
- Focused on ongoing process improvement.
- Manages collection and reporting of production data, KPI’s etc. to support routine dashboards and special reports as required by the Assistant Plant Manager and/or Operations Director.
- Operates with transparency and earns trust at all levels through communication and actions.
Other duties, as assigned
QualificationsRequired Skills & Experience
- Technical knowledge of manufacturing processes.
- Proficient with MS Office suite.
- Excellent written and verbal communication.
- High attention to detail.
- Creative problem solver.
- Positive attitude with a track record of delivering results
- 5+ years of managerial experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in metal fabrication.
- Self-motivated with strong ability to multitask and operate with minimal supervision.
- Ability to motivate, manage, and develop people of all skill levels effectively.
Preferred Skills & Experience
- Bachelor’s or Associate degree in engineering or related technical field preferred.
- Ability to effectively lead and manage in a fast-paced environment.
- Welding, and fabrication knowledge and process preferred
- Lean Manufacturing Experience preferred
Skills Required
- Technical knowledge of manufacturing processes
- Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- High attention to detail
- Creative problem-solving ability
- Positive attitude with a track record of delivering results
- At least 5 years of managerial experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably metal fabrication
- Self-motivation and ability to multitask with minimal supervision
- Ability to motivate, manage, and develop people of all skill levels
- Bachelor’s or associate degree in engineering or a related technical field
- Ability to lead and manage effectively in a fast-paced environment
- Welding and fabrication knowledge
- Lean manufacturing experience
What We Do
Founded in 1997, Dakota Bodies specializes in designing and manufacturing high-quality utility and service truck bodies. The company serves the demanding requirements of utility and essential infrastructure crews throughout North America. Utilizing state-of-the-art manufacturing technology at its facilities in Watertown, South Dakota, and Liberty, Missouri, Dakota Bodies focuses on custom engineering to ensure that each truck body is optimized for specific professional needs and productivity.
