Process Optimization Manager

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Date: Oct 21, 2026

Location: Starkville, MS, US, 39760

Company: Southwire Company LLC

A leader in technology and innovation, Southwire Company, LLC is one of North America’s largest wire and cable producers. Southwire and its subsidiaries manufacture building wire and cable, utility products, metal-clad cable, portable and electronic cord products, OEM wire products and engineered products. In addition, Southwire supplies assembled products, contractor equipment, electrical components, hand tools and jobsite power and lighting solutions. The company also offers digital solutions including contractor planning and utility grid resiliency as well as field services including cable testing, rejuvenation and replacement to support our customers as a value-add partner. We are proud to offer competitive compensation, employee benefits, tuition reimbursement and unlimited growth opportunities. Our more than seven decades of progressive growth can be attributed to our determination to developing innovative systems and solutions, exercising environmental stewardship and enhancing the well-being of the communities in which we work and live. How will you power what’s possible?  

Location: Starkville, MS Plant

Job Summary

The Process Optimization Manager is responsible for the development, standardization, quality, and the continuous improvement of processes and products produced at one of Southwire's sites. The Process Optimization Manager's focus is on the development and coaching of team members in the areas of process engineering, quality, tool & die management, and continuous improvement. Key initiatives include EHS culture of zero, material usage, scrap, OEE, cost out, quality, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead, coach, and develop Quality, Continuous Improvement, and Processing Engineering team members.
  • Train and employ Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to lead process improvement projects to meet key goals and objectives for OEE, material usage, scrap, and quality.
  • Lead and facilitate Kaizen events to drive continuous improvement
  • Maintain a robust Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure products and services meet or exceed customer expectations including a compliant and effective ISO 9001 system, UL, and other required certifications
  • Ensure successful implementation of new products using methods including APQP and PPAP.
  • Lead a systematic process of cost reduction including an annual process of identifying and exploiting opportunities to improve the plant operating costs and reduce overall product cost.
  • Own the Cost Out pipeline of projects targeting 10% plant cost reduction annually.
  • Partner with the Maintenance & Engineering Manager to implement Maintenance and Reliability roadmap leading to increased planned/predictive maintenance and lower reactive maintenance.
  • Ensure strong governance and documentation of process standards.
  • Collaborate cross‑functionally to ensure process improvements are aligned with business priorities, enhance operational stability, and support a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
  • Performs other duties as assigned
  • Complies with all policies and standards
  • Manages staff performance and development, coaching team members to achieve their full potential in contributing to the department's goals.

    • Required Education & Experience

    Minimum Education Level: Bachelor's Degree

    Specialized Degree: Engineering or related technical field.

    Licenses/Certificates: Possess or working towards Six Sigma Black Belt.

    Years of Experience: 5-7 Years

    Field of Expertise: Process engineering/optimization, continuous improvement, & quality.

    Preferred Education & Experience

    Specialized Degree: Masters of Engineering

    Licenses/Certificates: Six Sigma Black Belt

    Years of Experience: 8-11 Years

    Field of Expertise: Process engineering/optimization, continuous improvement, & quality

    Spans of Control

    Does this role Manage Southwire Team Members: Yes Number of Direct Reports: 2-5

    Travel

    Travel: None

    Physical Requirements

    Standing: 5%

    Sitting: 90%

    Walking: 5%

    Working Conditions

    Office

    Plant/Warehouse Floor

    Equipment

    Computer/Keyboard

    Safety Glasses

    Safety Shoes

    Competencies

    Attracts Top Talent
    Communicates Effectively
    Courage
    Decision Quality
    Drives Results
    Financial Acumen

    Skills

    Analytical Skills
    Change Management
    Critical Thinking
    Influencing Skills
    Kaizen Methodology
    Process Improvement
    Quality Control
    Regulatory Compliance
    Root Cause Analysis
    Six Sigma Methodology

    Benefits We Offer:

    • 401k with Matching
    • Family and Individual Insurance Packages (Health, Life, Dental, and Vision) 
    • Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays 
    • Long & Short-Term Disability 
    • Supplemental Insurance Plans
    • Employee Assistance Program 
    • Employee Referral Program 
    • Tuition Reimbursement Programs 
    • Advancement & Professional Growth opportunities  
    • Parental Leave 
    • & More 

    Southwire is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


    Nearest Major Market: Columbus Mississippi