Lead Planner - Coating

Job description:

We are proud to announce the launch of Volkswagen Group's largest cell factory, PowerCo, in St. Thomas. This is more than just a job - it's a unique opportunity to shape the future of sustainable energy. Join us as we ramp up operations and help build a world-class company.

At PowerCo, we believe in fostering an environment where ambition meets collaboration, and where flexibility and creativity thrive. You'll be part of a diverse, talented team that is shaping the future of battery production. You'll have the chance to advance your career while working alongside passionate colleagues who share a vision of making a lasting impact on the world.

Are you ready to be part of something exciting? Power up your career with us!

PowerCo Canada Inc. is seeking a skilled Lead Planner - Coating to join our team for the battery cell production line in St. Thomas. In this role, you will be responsible for proposing, developing, presenting, and coordinating planning concepts for machinery and the plant, involved in the production of battery cell factories, covering process steps including notching, stacking, cell assembly processes, leakage test, material transport (conveyor system).

The Role:
* Develop and implement equipment concepts for cell production machinery and plants.
* Coordinate the realization and operation of these concepts, ensuring adherence to defined measures.
* Assess, design, and ensure the application of new technologies and compliance with both external and internal regulations (e.g., quality and humanization targets).
* Professionally coordinate and guide employees involved in the equipment planning process.
* Perform tasks related to cell coating manufacturing for battery cell production plants, including notching, stacking, cell assembly processes, leakage test, material transport (conveyor system)
* Define manufacturing strategy for battery cell high-volume production
* Lead multi-equipment planning from the concept phase through to process implementation in mass production, ensuring a smooth production start
* Be an internal expert on certification and permitting of cell manufacturing equipment in Canada
* Act as a subject matter expert in attending design reviews and FAT (Factory Acceptance Test)
* Supervise the equipment supplier to install and commission the cell manufacturing equipment
* Lead the effort of SAT (Site Acceptance Test) and work with equipment suppliers for specific process areas
* Lead the efforts to work with cell manufacturing equipment suppliers on cell coating related issues in production, work with team to assess path forward
* Lead the collaboration with PowerCo headquarters, and other PowerCo global factories and partners
* Lead the efforts to interface and exchange with other PowerCo departments including development, process, quality, automation, logistics, digitalization, maintenance, HSE (health safety environment) etc.
* Lead the projects for cell coating manufacturing equipment continuous improvement
* Investigate and identify root causes of equipment failures, and summarize/communicate lessons learned

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree or higher in in electrical, mechanical, materials, chemical or electrochemical engineering, or a related major.
PhD degree with 5+ years'/Master degree with 8+ years'/ Bachlor degree with 10+ years' experience of working in Li ion battery cell industry, ideally within a global organization.
Direct experience in designing/planning cell coating equipment and extensive experience in battery cell manufacturing.
Direct experience on notching, stacking, cell assembly processes, welding, automatic waste collection, vision system, leakage test, conveyor system (four or more areas).
* Proficient in manufacturing feasibility, method plan validation, design principles, measurement process validation, P-FEMA, MES.
* Experience in leading projects and technical topics.
* Extensive experience in working in corporate suppliers-customer relationships, strong record of supplier management.
* Experience in initial phase of a battery cell production plant would be considered an asset.
* Working experience with automotive OEMs is an asset.
* Ability to travel both within Canada/US and internationally up to ~ 20%.

What you will receive:
Attractive Remuneration: We offer a competitive and attractive remuneration that reflect your skills, experience, and contributions.
Vacation Allowance: We offer our employees competitive paid time off. Plus, you don't need to take any vacation days from December 24 to December 31.
Opportunities for development
Relocation Support
Opportunities to participate in exciting company events that give back to the community.
Competitive employer paid benefits and overall compensation package with extended health care, dental, vision and mental health support.
Pension and Retirement Savings: We contribute the equivalent of 5% to a Registered Pension Plan and matching contribution to a retirement savings plan.
And much more!

*This is a flex hybrid work structure, where employees can work both remotely and on-site. However, please note all hybrid work arrangements are subject to the terms and conditions of our hybrid work policy as may be amended from time to time.

Please note that we appreciate the interest of all candidates, however only those under consideration will be contacted.

We believe that the best results are created in a diverse and inclusive environment.
Therefore, all qualified applications will be considered for employment regardless of age, race, religion, gender (identity), sexual orientation, national origin or disability.