About the position
Harbinger Motors Inc. is a Southern California-based electric vehicle manufacturer on a mission to transform the automotive and transportation industries, bringing to market EVs developed from the ground up to address the needs of the Medium Duty vehicle industry. This broad, and to date poorly addressed, market segment includes class 4 to 7 commercial delivery vehicles, RVs and utility vehicles, among others. Leveraging a foundation of proprietary, in-house developed vehicle technologies, Harbinger's first-of-its-kind EV platform will bring enhancements in vehicle performance, durability and operator comfort. And importantly, Harbinger's vehicles will be priced for zero acquisition premium relative to traditional gas- and diesel-based competitors, removing one of the most tenacious barriers to EV adoption. Harbinger's team, with operations in Southern California and Michigan, includes industry veterans with expertise in powertrain, battery, chassis and software development, along with leaders in advanced manufacturing, corporate development, operations and finance. Our team members come from leading innovators, both in and out of the automotive industry, including Tesla, Rivian, Canoo, Ford, Anduril, and SpaceX. Founded in 2021, Harbinger is a venture-backed startup on a rapid growth trajectory, looking for candidates that thrive on tackling complex challenges and who share in our passion to bring clean transportation alternatives to a segment of the market starving for innovation.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute long-term strategies for automated manufacturing processes to support EV production.
- Serve as a thought leader in the organization, identifying and driving adoption of industry best practices and emerging trends.
- Direct cross-functional teams to ensure the successful design, commissioning, and ramp-up of automated manufacturing systems for EV components, including batteries, drivetrains, and electronics.
- Oversee multiple complex projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, timelines, and budget constraints.
- Ensure smooth transitions from R&D prototypes to scalable mass production.
- Lead automation projects from concept to deployment, including vendor selection, system integration, and validation.
- Optimize production processes through robotics, PLC programming, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
- Work closely with cross-functional teams, including design, production, and supply chain, to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions.
- Identify, evaluate, and implement state-of-the-art equipment and processes to enhance productivity, quality, and sustainability.
- Collaborate with external partners, including suppliers and technology providers, to introduce innovative manufacturing solutions.
- Drive automation initiatives, integrating robotics and smart systems into production lines.
- Define and enforce quality standards in line with ISO/TS 16949, IATF 16949, and other relevant certifications.
- Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for manufacturing issues.
- Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and regulatory requirements.
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and cross-disciplinary teams.
- Build and lead high-performing teams, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
- Deliver training programs on advanced manufacturing techniques and emerging technologies.
- Champion lean manufacturing principles to optimize efficiency, reduce waste, and improve operational sustainability.
- Drive data-driven decision-making through advanced analytics and process monitoring tools.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related fields. A Master's or Ph.D. in a relevant discipline is strongly preferred.
- 7-10+ years of experience in advanced manufacturing engineering, with a strong background in automotive or EV industries.
- Proven track record of leading large-scale automated manufacturing projects from concept to full-scale production.
- In-depth knowledge of EV-specific manufacturing processes, including battery assembly, thermal management systems, high-precision electronics production and General Assembly.
- Expertise in automation, PLCs, robotics, and AI-driven manufacturing systems.
- Proficiency with tools like CAD/CAM, simulation software, MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), and ERP systems.
- Strong leadership and project management skills with the ability to influence and align cross-functional teams.
- Exceptional problem-solving abilities, with a strategic mindset and attention to detail.
Benefits
- 100% Comprehensive Health Coverage: top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Early-stage stock options for financial growth.
- Flexible PTO and the freedom to celebrate holidays and wellness days.
- Annual vacation stipend.
- Paid lunches and dinners.
