Stamping Expert

Main Responsibilities: Process Development & Tooling Leadership - Lead the design, validation, and optimization of stamping processes for ladder frame structural components. - Define press selection (600T6,000T transfer and tandem presses), die design parameters, and forming strategies for HSLA, AHSS, and UHSS steels. - Oversee forming simulations (AutoForm, PAM-STAMP, DYNAFORM) to ensure manufacturability, springback control, and cost efficiency. - Drive tooling standardization across global ladder frame programs to reduce lead time and cost. Production Support & Operations Management - Act as the technical authority for stamping operations, leading troubleshooting of forming issues (splits, wrinkles, galling, springback). - Develop and enforce best practices for die setup, press operation, and tool maintenance. - Support production ramp-up, ensuring throughput, OEE, and safety metrics are achieved. - Coordinate with welding, e-coat, and assembly teams to ensure stamped parts flow seamlessly downstream. Quality & Compliance - Lead dimensional quality control for ladder frame parts, implementing SPC, MSA, and GD&T adherence. - Own PPAP, APQP, and PFMEA deliverables for stamping processes. - Collaborate with quality teams to implement corrective actions and ensure compliance with OEM specifications. - Conduct root cause analysis and develop countermeasures to reduce scrap, rework, and customer returns. Supplier & Stakeholder Engagement - Manage relationships with steel suppliers, tool shops, and press equipment vendors. - Support sourcing decisions, supplier audits, and technical reviews for stamping feasibility. - Act as the stamping subject matter expert in OEM technical reviews, providing justification on capability and limits. - Represent stamping engineering in cross-functional program teams (manufacturing, product engineering, supply chain). Continuous Improvement & Leadership - Introduce innovative solutions such as servo-press optimization, digital twins, and predictive analytics for die wear. - Drive lean initiatives, cost-reduction programs, and yield improvement projects. - Mentor engineers, toolmakers, and production staff, developing organizational stamping expertise. - Standardize best practices across multiple plants/programs for stamping consistency. Education Bachelor''s Degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (Master''s a plus). Technical Qualification 8-12 years of experience in automotive steel stamping, with direct exposure to ladder frames or medium/large structural components Strong background in die design, forming simulation, and high-tonnage press operations. Expertise in AHSS/UHSS stamping and springback mitigation techniques. Familiarity with APQP, PPAP, GD&T, SPC, and problem-solving methodologies (8D, Six Sigma) Working knowledge of automation/robots integration in stamping lines. Strong leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Behavioral Skills Strategic Leadership Adaptability Resilience Effective Communication Customer Focus Goal orientation Decision-making Safety Culture mindset Ability to work and promote teamwork KPIs: - Scrap rate reduction and material yield improvement. - Press line OEE and die changeover efficiency. - Cost savings achieved through tooling standardization and process optimization. - On-time delivery of stamping PPAP and launch readiness. - Reduction in customer quality concerns related to stamped parts. Special Conditions: Availability for national and international travelbfb3568a-762b-4989-884b-a9682aa104ca