We're Watts. Together, we're reimagining the future of water. We feel proud every day about what we do. We're all part of the same crucial mission, no matter what function we support -- it's to provide safe, clean water for the world, and to protect our planet's most valuable resource. What we do: For 150 years, Watts has built best-in-class products that are trusted bycustomers in residential and commercial settings across the world.We areat theforefront of innovation, working with cutting-edge technology to provide smart andconnected, sustainable water solutions for the future. Watts is a leading brand with aquality reputation - and we have a dynamic future ahead.
We are seeking a results-driven Value Stream Leader (VSL) to lead and optimize our Mueller Steam Specialty operations. This highly motivated and experienced individual, as part of the Manufacturing Leadership team, will be responsible for leading the end-to-end Mueller value stream, ensuring safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets are met while driving Continuous Improvement and Lean manufacturing initiatives.
This position is responsible for supervision of multiple direct reports, 25+.
This position reports to the Plant Manager. This role is onsite and based in St. Pauls, NC.
Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Lead cross-functional teams across CNC machining, screen/strainer fabrication, assembly, paint, and packaging processes.
- Develop and execute value stream strategies aligned with business goals.
- Foster a culture of safety, engagement, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
- Manage daily operations to meet production schedules and customer requirements.
- Monitor and improve key performance indicators (KPIs): safety, quality, OEE, throughput, scrap, rework, and on-time delivery.
- Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
- Champion Lean principles such as 5S, Kaizen, Kanban, and Value Stream Mapping.
- Identify and eliminate waste across processes to improve flow and efficiency.
- Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for process issues.
- Coach, mentor, and develop team members to build a high-performing workforce.
- Conduct performance reviews and support employee growth plans.
- Work closely with EHS, Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, and Supply Chain teams.
- Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related field.
- 5+ years of experience in manufacturing leadership.
- Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement tools.
- Proven ability to lead teams and manage complex production environments.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
- Proficiency in ERP systems and manufacturing software.
Preferred Qualifications
- Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher).
- Experience with high-mix, low-volume production environments.
- Experience with CNC machining and assembly.
- Familiarity with ISO 9001 standards.
- Experience supervising 25+ direct reports.
General Applicable Company Competencies
- Commitment to Watts' values of integrity, accountability, continuous improvement and innovation, and transparency.
- Punctuality and dependability.
- Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing work priorities and stressful conditions.
- Adherence to all personnel policies, procedures, and standards of process as implemented by Watts.
- Maintain productive and collaborative relationships with other Watts employees.
- Adherence to Watts' seven cultural beliefs: Growth Mindset, Customer-Focused Innovation, Constant Communication, Clear Goals, Collaborate Globally, Be Inclusive, and Take Action.
Working Conditions
While performing the job duties, you will be working on-site at a manufacturing facility and will perform the majority of your duties in an office environment. You may, at times, be required to be present on the manufacturing floor and will be required to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. You will be required to work in the office at the St Pauls, NC location Monday - Friday. Your scheduled work hours will be communicated to you by your manager.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to remain seated at a desk or workstation for extended periods.
- Ability to perform repetitive tasks like typing on a keyboard or using a mouse for extended periods.
- Ability to physically move around the office, organize or transport files, packages, or other office-related materials.
- Ability to read documents, use a computer, and perform data entry tasks.
- Ability to communicate clearly with management and co-workers, particularly in meetings or on phone calls.
- Ability to operate standard office equipment such as computers, printers, phones, and copiers.
- Ability to occasionally lift and carry light objects, such as office supplies, documents, or small equipment.
- Ability to wear personal protective equipment, which may include, but is not limited to, safety shoes, hearing protection, and safety glasses.
Nothing in this job description restricts Watts' right to assign or reassign duties, responsibilities, and working hours/conditions to this position at any time. This position is "at will," which means that either the employee or Watts may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, and for any lawful reason.
Watts in it for you: Please note that the following benefits apply only to permanent roles and do not apply to internship roles.
- Competitive compensation based on your skills, qualifications and experience
- Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits
- Family building benefits, including paid maternity/paternity leave
- 10 paid holidays and Paid Time Off
- Continued professional development opportunities and educational reimbursement
- Additional perks such as fitness reimbursements and employee discount programs
- Learn more about our benefit offerings here: https://tapintowattsbenefits.com/
How we work: At Watts, our culture is team-oriented and supportive. Employees here genuinely care about the quality of their work, and about each other. Our people are the heart of who we are and contribute to our longevity and continued success. And this is a place where you can have a big career. No matter your role, there are opportunities for learning and development, and your daily contributions make a meaningful impact on the lives of people who use our products and on the future of water. Watts is committed to equal employment opportunity. We follow a policy of administering all employment decisions and personnel actions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, genetic disposition or carrier status, marital status, military or veteran status, minorities, or any other category protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Consistent with the obligations of state and federal law, Watts will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Any employee who needs a reasonable accommodation should contact Human Resources.
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