Job Description
Job Description
POSITION OPENING • PLACED BY VANSPEAG GROUP
TECHNICAL LAUNCH MANAGER
New & Existing Equipment MUST BE ABLE TO DO THE FOLLWING • Setup, Programming & Commissioning
Michigan (Primary) • 50% Travel to Rockford, IL • Full-Time • Direct Hire
Location
Sterling Heights, MI (Primary Facility)
Travel
50% travel required to Rockford, IL
Function
New Equipment Launch • Current Equipment Setup & Optimization • PLC Programming • Process Commissioning
Compensation
annually, based on experience
Benefits
Full benefits package — Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, 401(k) + additional growth opportunities
Employment
Full-Time | Direct Hire
Reports To
Plant / Operations Manager
Placed By
VanSpeag Group (VSG) • vsgroup@vanspeaggroup.com • www.VanSpeag.com
Position Overview
VSG is seeking a highly skilled Technical Launch Manager to own the setup, programming, and commissioning of both new and existing PLC-controlled E-coat finishing equipment across its Michigan and Rockford, Illinois facilities.
This is a critical technical leadership role for someone who thrives in the launch environment — someone who can walk onto a floor with new equipment, take ownership of the build-out from mechanical setup through full production release, and then turn around and optimize the existing lines running today. You are the person who gets the machine running right and keeps it there.
If you’ve commissioned E-coat lines, written PLC programs from scratch, trained operators to standard, and handed a line over to production running at rate — this role was built for you.
Key Responsibilities
New Equipment Launch & Commissioning
- Serve as the primary technical lead for all new E-coat finishing equipment launches at CMF Michigan and Rockford facilities
- Own the full launch lifecycle: mechanical setup, electrical integration, PLC programming, process validation, and production handoff
- Develop and execute launch readiness plans including milestone tracking, risk identification, and go/no-go criteria
- Coordinate with equipment vendors, engineers, and plant leadership to align timelines, specs, and acceptance criteria
- Commission new lines to proven process parameters — coating thickness, adhesion, cure profiles, and throughput targets
- Build and deliver operator training packages prior to production release; ensure teams are qualified before handoff
- Document all launch activities, process settings, and lessons learned for use across both facilities
Current Equipment Setup, Programming & Optimization
- Own the setup and changeover process for existing PLC-controlled E-coat finishing lines (Anodic and Cathodic systems)
- Write, modify, and optimize PLC programs to improve line performance, reduce cycle time, and eliminate process variation
- Manage zinc phosphate pre-treatment sequences, high-voltage electro-deposition parameters, and cure oven profiles
- Lead line startups, shutdowns, and product changeovers to minimize downtime and maximize yield
- Develop and maintain standardized setup sheets, run parameters, and changeover procedures for all active lines
- Identify process gaps and equipment deficiencies; drive improvement projects through to completion
- Serve as the escalation point for complex process issues that frontline teams cannot resolve
PLC Programming & Controls
- Program and maintain PLC logic for finishing line automation, conveyors, chemical dosing, rectifiers, and oven controls
- Troubleshoot electrical and controls issues at the component level — drives, sensors, I/O modules, HMIs
- Manage program backups, version control, and change documentation across all controlled equipment
- Interface with SCADA, MES, or data collection systems as required
- Evaluate new control technologies and recommend upgrades that improve reliability and process capability
Floor Leadership, Training & Standards
- Lead and develop frontline operators, technicians, and maintenance personnel on equipment operation and process standards
- Build and maintain standardized work instructions (SWIs), LSW documents, and visual job aids for all lines
- Conduct hands-on WINS-style training: model the standard, involve the team, coach to competency, verify mastery
- Participate in daily SQDC+ huddles, shift reviews, and escalation meetings
- Partner with Quality on root cause analysis (RCA), corrective actions, and customer quality requirements
Multi-Site Support — Michigan & Rockford, IL
- Travel 50% to CMF Rockford, IL to lead launches, provide setup support, and drive process consistency between sites
- Act as the technical bridge between Michigan and Rockford — aligning programs, parameters, and standards across both locations
- Support equipment transfers, facility expansions, and new program introductions at either site
Qualifications
Required
- 5+ years of hands-on experience with PLC programming and industrial equipment setup in a manufacturing environment
- Proven track record launching, commissioning, and validating new manufacturing equipment from setup through production release
- Direct experience with E-coat / electrocoating finishing lines — Anodic or Cathodic systems
- Working knowledge of zinc phosphate pre-treatment systems and high-voltage electro-deposition processes
- Ability to write and modify PLC programs independently — not just troubleshoot existing code
- Experience developing standardized work, setup sheets, and operator training materials
- Demonstrated ability to lead and develop frontline manufacturing teams
- Ability and willingness to travel 50% to Rockford, IL
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
Preferred
- Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation or Siemens PLC platform experience
- Background in metal finishing, automotive, or industrial manufacturing
- Experience with SCADA, HMI configuration, and data acquisition systems
- Familiarity with SQDC+ and visual management systems
- Root cause analysis experience — 5-Why, Fishbone, 8D
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial Technology (or equivalent hands-on experience)
Compensation & Benefits
Annual salary, based on experience
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Paid Time Off (PTO) & Holidays
- Travel reimbursement & per diem
- Growth opportunities within CMF / PRIMAT Industries
- Additional advancement opportunities through VanSpeag Group (VSG) network
About
Leading metal finishing manufacturer and part of the PRIMAT Industries group. CMF operates multiple facilities including Sterling Heights, MI and Rockford, IL, serving automotive and industrial customers with precision electrocoating and surface finishing solutions.
How to Apply
This position is placed exclusively through VanSpeag Group (VSG). To apply or refer a candidate, contact us directly:
VANSPEAG GROUP • WE DO IT TOGETHERTM
Strategy Meets Execution — On the Floor, Not in the Conference Room.
Placed by VSG • Michigan-Based • Nationwide Reach