Front End Specialist Launch Team

About Ball Corporation

Join Ball Corporation, a global leader in sustainable aluminium packaging manufacturing with over 16,000 employees worldwide. Recognized as one of Newsweek's Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces globally in 2023, Ball is dedicated to sustainability through endlessly recyclable packaging including cans, cups, and aerosol bottles. Our mission is to impact professional growth, community, and the environment positively.

Role Purpose

This role is part of a team of Process experts focused primarily on New Build, New Line, and Line Conversion start-ups in cupper, bodymaker, and trimmer areas. The specialist assumes responsibility for a specified process area, leveraging previous experience, aiming to optimize Efficiency and Spoilage rates while ensuring safety compliance. Secondary KPIs include material usage and production supplies, along with adherence to environmental standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Promote a safety-first culture by applying safe practices, ensuring equipment compliance, and mentoring new team members in safety protocols.
• Lead equipment installation and commissioning phases, ensuring setup aligns with performance specifications.
• Act as on-site Subject Matter Expert for designated processes to maintain stable and efficient line operations.
• Deliver comprehensive training blending on-the-job and classroom methods to enhance operator and mechanic skills in operation, troubleshooting, maintenance, and quality.
• Perform real-time troubleshooting during start-ups to resolve mechanical, chemical, and process challenges swiftly.
• Engage in root cause analysis to address recurring problems and improve reliability.
• Ensure Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and training materials accurately reflect new equipment and best practices.
• Uphold food safety, sanitation, and housekeeping standards consistent with regulations.
• Verify readiness of parts, tools, and materials necessary for start-ups and ongoing operations.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, and Quality teams to transition lines to steady-state.
• Document lessons learned and share best practices for continuous improvement.
• Meet Efficiency and Spoilage targets aligned with approved start-up curves.
• Contribute to the Start-Up Team’s success by leading assigned process areas.
• Develop skills of newly recruited and existing site personnel to foster autonomous operation.
• Provide emergency support to minimize downtime during critical phases.
• Facilitate efficient size conversions ensuring safe and consistent changeovers.
• Identify and implement best practices to enhance future start-ups and long-term performance.
• Support deployment of Business Operating Excellence (BOE) level 3 standards relating to safety, quality, maintenance, and business management pillars.

Requirements & Competencies

• Technical qualification in mechanical or electrical disciplines.
• Training certification at least equivalent to Train the Trainer.
• Extensive understanding of the entire can manufacturing process, with expertise in at least one specific area.
• Capability to effectively impart process knowledge to others.
• Proficiency in equipment setup, optimization, troubleshooting, and operational support.
• Computer literacy for data analysis and report creation.
• Communicative proficiency in English.
• Preferred experience with line launches or rebuild projects.
• Strong ownership mentality with an emphasis on continuous improvement and waste reduction.
• Aptitude for mentoring less experienced colleagues.
• Meticulous attention to detail and strict adherence to specifications.
• Effective communication skills across departments and organizational levels.
• Team-oriented with collaborative work approach.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in can manufacturing operations.
• Basic knowledge and use of problem solving and Lean principles.

Work Environment

The position supports central functions and provides flexibility including hybrid or fully remote work options, contingent on role needs and managerial approval.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary range for Germany as a reference: 62,300 – 89,690 EUR gross annually, adjusted based on candidate’s qualifications and location. Eligible for participation in the company’s annual incentive program. Benefits package includes pension contributions, life, accident & disability insurance, employee assistance program, and meal support.

Diversity & Inclusion

Ball Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer promoting a diverse and inclusive culture where all employees can contribute and belong regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, faith, ability, or orientation.

Additional Information

The official job title may differ in the employment contract depending on local HR systems and structures.