Head of Manufacturing

Head of Manufacturing

At Fourier, we're focused on making on-site Hydrogen universally accessible. Our revolutionary architecture enables highly modular and fully automated electrolyzers that scale to any size and optimize efficiency at all loads. We're dedicated to transitioning the global energy landscape towards a sustainable, emission-free future.

About the Role

We are seeking a Head of Manufacturing to lead our efforts in Design for Manufacturing (DFM), New Product Introduction (NPI) and Contract Manufacturer (CM) collaboration and partnership. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in optimizing manufacturing processes, ensuring seamless transitions from prototype to production, and driving innovation in our manufacturing operations.

Manufacturing innovation is a key pillar of Fourier’s mission to build scalable, end-to-end and cheaper electrolyzer systems from the ground up all the way from stack design and system production through to deployment globally. 

Roles and responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of DFM strategies to optimize product design for manufacturability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.

• Oversee the NPI process, collaborating closely with engineering, supply chain, and quality teams to ensure successful product launches.

• Establish best practices and standards for manufacturing processes, including tooling design, assembly methods, and quality control procedures.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing efficiency, reduce cycle times, and minimize production costs.

• Partner with cross-functional teams to identify and mitigate potential manufacturing risks early in the product development cycle.

• Partner with cross-functional teams to identify and select contract manufacturing partners, and to transition smoothly from early product development through NPI to prototype production and then to volume manufacturing.

• Develop and manage manufacturing budgets, forecasts, and resource allocation plans to support NPI and ongoing production.

• Evaluate and implement advanced manufacturing technologies, automation solutions, and digital tools to improve productivity and flexibility.

• Collaborate with engineering and process teams to identify, evaluate and implement such advanced manufacturing technologies and tools into Fourier’s production ecosystem.

• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and operational excellence within the manufacturing team.

Qualifications

Required: 

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.

• 8+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing leadership roles, with a focus on DFM and NPI.

• Proven track record of successfully leading DFM and NPI initiatives in a fast-paced, high-tech environment.

• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, including machining, assembly, testing and quality process management.

• Experience in working with contract manufacturing partners.

• Excellent project management skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously while identifying and mitigating risks.

• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and drive alignment towards common goals.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making.

Preferred: 

• Master's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.

• Experience with lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and statistical process control.

• Direct personal experience in working with contract manufacturing teams in distant locations.

• Familiarity with hydrogen or similar gas handling and / or gas manufacturing processes.

What we offer

• Fully paid Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage

• Competitive salary and equity compensation commensurate with experience

• 401k

• Diverse and inclusive work environment

• Paid sick days and vacation