Head- Powertrain Operations

Opportunity: Head Powertrain Operations (Automotive Sector)

Location: Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh

Experience: 22-25 years |

Qualification: Engineering Graduate (with relevant certifications preferred)

About the Organization

We are a leading Indian automobile manufacturer with a legacy of over six decades, specializing in engineering, development, and manufacturing of vehicles, aggregates, and components. The organization is among Indias largest producers of vans and utility vehicles, with a strong presence in both domestic and global markets.

Role: Head Powertrain Operations

This is a critical leadership role responsible for managing and optimizing the entire powertrain operations, including precision machining, assembly, and testing of engines, gearboxes, and axles. The role demands proven expertise in driving operational excellence, productivity, quality, and compliance with international standards.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Management

• Lead operations related to machining, assembly, and testing of engines, transmissions, and axle
• Define and track KPIs (throughput, OEE, cost, safety, quality).
• Develop strategies to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and optimize resources.
• Ensure adherence to safety, environmental, and quality standards (ISO 9001 / IATF

Process Engineering & Technology Excellence

• Guide the team in powertrain technologies, machining, and assembly processes.
• Implement BS norms, RDE, and OBD-II compliance seamlessly into manufacturing.
• Collaborate with R&D and homologation teams for technology adoption.
• Ensure end-of-line (EOL) testing, engine dynos, emission analyzers meet regulatory norms.

Machining Operations

• Manage machining of cylinder blocks, heads, crankshafts, camshafts, gears, housings.
• Ensure dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and tolerance compliance using CNC and SPC.
• Oversee tooling, fixture design, and tool life monitoring.

Assembly & Testing

• Lead complete assembly of ICE engines and transmissions.
• Ensure torque, sealing, and functional testing (hot/cold/leak tests).
• Monitor takt time, line balancing, and manpower deployment.

Maintenance & Equipment

• Implement Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) for machining and testing equipment.
• Drive preventive, predictive, and breakdown maintenance strategies.
• Track MTTR/MTBF metrics for equipment reliability.

Quality & Cost Management

• Drive Lean Six Sigma and continuous improvement projects.
• Conduct root cause analysis, audits, and corrective actions.
• Monitor budgets, reduce costs, and improve operational efficiency.

Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor a team of ~1520 managers, supervisors, and technicians.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.

Required Competencies

• In-depth knowledge of powertrain manufacturing (engine, gearbox, axle).
• Strong technical expertise in CNC machining, assembly, torque systems, hot/cold testing, and emission compliance.
• Experience with MES, ERP systems, Lean Manufacturing, TPM, Six Sigma.
• Ability to drive automation, poka-yoke, and process innovation.
• Strong leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• 2225 years of experience in automotive / commercial vehicle manufacturing
• Engineering graduate (Mechanical/Automobile/Production preferred).
• Proven track record of managing large-scale powertrain operations.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to lead end-to-end powertrain operations in a globally integrated automotive organization with partnerships across premium passenger and commercial vehicle segments.