MLD & FPS Specialist-Planta Ford Irapuato

The Manufacturing Learning & Development / FPS Specialist is responsible for developing and enhancing manufacturing workforce capabilities through Lean Manufacturing principles, Ford Production System (FPS) methodologies, leadership development, and continuous improvement initiatives. This position serves as a strategic partner to Production Teams, Process Coaches, Team Leaders, Operations Leadership, and Learning & Development organizations.

The role focuses on identifying capability gaps, creating development plans, coaching frontline leaders, facilitating training programs, supporting problem-solving initiatives, and promoting a culture of operational excellence. The specialist is also responsible for deploying FPS strategies, supporting standardization efforts, validating operational data for decision-making, and improving productivity through workforce development and Lean practices.

As a key change agent, this position helps strengthen organizational readiness, leadership effectiveness, and manufacturing performance by integrating people development, digital learning tools, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Learning & Development

• Identify training and development needs for Team Leaders and Process Coaches. 
• Design and coordinate development plans aligned with business and operational objectives.
• Partner with Learning & Development teams to deploy technical and leadership training programs.
• Support workforce capability development through structured learning pathways and continuous education initiatives. 
• Monitor training effectiveness and workforce readiness results.

 

Lean Manufacturing & FPS Deployment

• Support deployment and sustainment of Ford Production System (FPS) standards and methodologies.
• Facilitate Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations. 
• Promote standardized Team Leader and Process Coach TDM execution. 
• Conduct FPS and KUP surveillance activities to ensure adherence to standards.
• Drive Lean maturity development across manufacturing departments. 

 

Coaching & Leadership Development

• Coach Team Leaders and Process Coaches on problem-solving methodologies and Lean tools. 
• Assess leadership behaviors and individual performance effectiveness. 
• Identify versatility and succession needs based on operational requirements. 
• Facilitate development conversations and growth opportunities for frontline leaders.
• Strengthen leadership capabilities through coaching, feedback, and continuous development programs.

 

Continuous Improvement & Productivity

• Analyze productivity constraints and operational bottlenecks. 
• Support Kaizen, DMAIC, 8D, and Green Belt initiatives focused on waste elimination.
• Document and replicate best practices and successful improvement projects across manufacturing areas.
• Validate operational data integrity to support business decision-making. 
• Contribute to operational performance improvements through workforce engagement and Lean implementation.

 

Innovation & Digital Transformation

• Identify opportunities to simplify Team Leader and Process Coach daily activities through technology and innovation. 
• Partner with GDI&A, IT, and Operations teams to digitalize manufacturing tools and learning processes.
• Promote adoption of digital learning platforms, analytics tools, and Industry 5.0 capabilities.
• Support transformational initiatives related to workforce readiness and operational excellence.

Bachelor's Degree in: Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Business Administration, Organizational Development, Education, Human Resources or Engineering or related discipline.

3+ years of experience in Manufacturing, Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, Learning & Development, Operational Excellence, or Workforce Development. Experience working within manufacturing production environments. DISCLAIMER: Ford Motor Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, as we are committed with a diverse workforce, and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran and basis of disability. #FordMexico