Sot Operations Specialist, North Americas (up to 100% Travel)

Ford Ford · Auto · United States · Supply Chain

This role focuses on mitigating supply chain risks for Ford's manufacturing operations by working with distressed production suppliers. The specialist will provide onsite support, develop and implement risk mitigation strategies, and analyze production, capacity, and quality challenges. The role requires extensive travel and collaboration with internal teams and suppliers to ensure consistent supply and minimize disruptions.

What you'd actually do

  1. Work directly with operationally and financially distressed suppliers, providing onsite support to stabilize production and reduce supply risk.
  2. Leading / Facilitating immediate establishment of Interim Containment & Permanent Corrective actions, also insert Zero Loss Units and Agility - Speed of Resolution as key measurables for this role
  3. Support and execute interim and permanent corrective actions to improve supplier performance and ensure consistent supply.
  4. Analyze production, capacity, and quality challenges to identify root causes using structured problem-solving methods (e.g., 8D).
  5. Help resolve bottlenecks and constraints to prevent disruptions to production and minimize premium freight.

Skills

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Supply Chain, Business, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience in Manufacturing, Supply Chain, or Operations
  • 5+ years applying analytical and critical thinking to identify root causes and implement solutions using structured problem-solving methods (e.g., 8D, root cause analysis)
  • Experience navigating ambiguous or evolving operational problems in time-sensitive, high-pressure, high-visibility environments
  • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and drive urgent resolution
  • 5+ years collaborating across teams with strong communication and cross-functional teamwork skills
  • Proficiency in Excel and data analysis
  • Working knowledge of manufacturing processes and lean principles
  • Experience applying continuous improvement practices

Nice to have

  • MBA or Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering
  • Bilingual English and Spanish
  • Experience in automotive or supplier manufacturing environments
  • Exposure to APQP, PPAP, or supplier quality processes

What the JD emphasized

  • Willingness to travel 75-100% and support weekends/off-shifts as needed
  • 5+ years of experience in Manufacturing, Supply Chain, or Operations, including troubleshooting and resolving manufacturing or supply chain issues
  • 5+ years applying analytical and critical thinking to identify root causes and implement solutions using structured problem-solving methods (e.g., 8D, root cause analysis)
  • 5+ years collaborating across teams with strong communication and cross-functional teamwork skills