The Manufacturing Manager – HVAC Components for Marine Use is responsible for overseeing the production, assembly, and quality control of HVAC components specifically designed for marine applications. The role ensures efficient manufacturing processes, strict adherence to marine-grade specifications, and delivery of robust, corrosion-resistant, and reliable systems suitable for shipboard use in compliance with classification and environmental standards.
Manage day-to-day manufacturing operations for marine HVAC products, including chillers, air handling units (AHUs), duct assemblies, dampers, diffusers, control panels, and other subcomponents.
Develop and implement production plans to meet quality, cost, and delivery targets aligned with project schedules and customer requirements.
Ensure all products meet marine standards for durability, vibration tolerance, moisture resistance, and classification society certification (e.g., ABS, DNV, Lloyd’s).
Oversee fabrication, welding, machining, coating, and assembly operations, ensuring process repeatability and efficiency.
Collaborate with design engineering and R&D to ensure manufacturability of HVAC components and effective handover from design to production.
Drive continuous improvement using Lean, 5S, Kaizen, or Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste, improve flow, and enhance product quality.
Manage manufacturing documentation including work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and QC checklists.
Ensure compliance with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and occupational health/safety standards within the production environment.
Monitor KPI metrics (OEE, on-time delivery, scrap rate, rework cost) and implement corrective actions as necessary.
Support prototype builds, new product introductions (NPI), and scale-up of production for new marine HVAC systems.
Coordinate with procurement and supply chain teams to ensure availability of marine-rated materials, coatings, and fasteners.
Lead, train, and motivate production teams while fostering a culture of safety, quality, and accountability.
Marine-Grade HVAC Manufacturing Excellence
Ensure all components are built to withstand harsh maritime environments, including corrosion, vibration, humidity, and salt exposure.
Regulatory and Classification Compliance
Manufacture products that meet the standards of IMO, SOLAS, and classification societies (ABS, DNV, BV, etc.).
Lean and Efficient Production Management
Improve throughput and reduce waste while maintaining flexibility for custom builds and small batch production.
Product Quality and Reliability
Embed rigorous quality control and testing into the production process to ensure dependable system performance onboard vessels.
Team Leadership and Safety
Build a capable, cross-trained manufacturing team while ensuring workplace safety and compliance with regulatory frameworks.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or a related field.
8+ years of manufacturing experience, with at least 3+ years in a leadership role within HVAC, marine, or heavy equipment sectors.
Solid understanding of HVAC system components, sheet metal fabrication, electro-mechanical assembly, and industrial coatings.
Experience with marine product standards and environmental durability requirements (e.g., IP ratings, anti-corrosion standards, vibration tolerance).
Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems, production planning tools, and manufacturing analytics.
Working knowledge of ISO, OSHA/EHS standards, and marine-specific manufacturing codes.
Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Background in manufacturing HVAC equipment specifically for naval, offshore, or cruise ship markets.
Familiarity with marine-class certification audits and documentation.
Certifications in Lean Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt), PMP, or ASME/ASHRAE standards.
Experience with automation, CNC, or robotic manufacturing techniques.