About this role
Join UCT and be part of the fastest-growing sector in the world! We indirectly touch every semiconductor chip that goes into every smartphone, smart car, and device that uses artificial intelligence. This is a critical time for the semiconductor industry and for UCT - as technology evolves, we evolve with it. UCT is a diverse workplace where every talented employee is committed to continuous innovation, challenging the status quo and exceeding customer expectations. If you are a person with a relentless drive to succeed, a strong focus on quality with a passion for success – join us today!
UCT is looking for a talented Senior Technical Manager - Training to join us in Phoenix, AZ!
UCT is seeking an experienced Senior Technical Manager to lead technical development, manufacturing process standardization, and workforce capability development at our Phoenix facility.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on manufacturing and operations leader with a strong background in complex assembly environments, preferably automotive, aerospace, electro-mechanical manufacturing, or other advanced industrial operations.
This individual will combine practical manufacturing knowledge with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, continuous improvement, and technical workforce development experience.
The primary objective is to strengthen manufacturing capabilities by establishing standardized processes, improving technical competencies, developing structured training and certification programs, and supporting operational excellence.
This role requires someone who understands how manufacturing operations work and can translate that knowledge into effective technical training, process improvements, and measurable operational results.
Key responsibilities
Manufacturing operations and technical leadership
- Provide technical leadership and support for manufacturing and assembly operations.
- Identify opportunities to improve productivity, quality, process reliability, and operational efficiency.
- Work closely with Operations, Engineering, Quality, and other functional leaders to address technical and operational challenges.
- Support the implementation of standardized manufacturing practices and operational best practices.
- Evaluate manufacturing workflows, assembly processes, and technical requirements.
Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement
- Lead and support Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives.
- Apply methodologies such as DMAIC, 5S, Standard Work, Root Cause Analysis, Value Stream Mapping, and Kaizen.
- Identify process inefficiencies and implement sustainable corrective actions.
- Establish and monitor improvement initiatives using measurable operational indicators.
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
Technical training and workforce development
- Develop and implement structured technical training programs based on actual manufacturing and operational requirements.
- Establish skills matrices, technical competency assessments, and qualification requirements.
- Develop standardized On-the-Job Training (OJT) processes and certification programs.
- Ensure employees are qualified to perform assigned technical operations and assembly processes.
- Work with experienced technicians and subject matter experts to capture operational knowledge and translate it into standardized training materials.
- Evaluate training effectiveness through practical assessments, qualification results, and operational performance.
- Develop technical development paths for technicians and manufacturing employees.
Process standardization and operational excellence
- Develop and maintain standardized work instructions, technical procedures, and process documentation.
- Promote consistency in manufacturing and assembly practices.
- Identify opportunities to replicate successful processes and best practices.
- Support the integration of training requirements into manufacturing process improvements.
- Ensure technical documentation reflects current manufacturing processes and quality requirements.
Quality, safety, and compliance
- Work with Quality and EHS teams to ensure manufacturing processes meet applicable standards and requirements.
- Promote workmanship standards, process discipline, and safe manufacturing practices.
- Support root cause investigations, corrective actions, and preventive improvements.
- Ensure training and qualification processes support applicable quality and safety requirements.
Leadership and cross-functional collaboration
- Lead and develop technical personnel and support workforce capability development.
- Collaborate with site leadership, Engineering, Quality, Operations, and HR.
- Communicate technical and operational requirements effectively.
- Drive projects from identification through implementation and sustainment.
Required qualifications – Must have
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Industrial Technology, or a related technical field; equivalent practical experience may be considered.
- 8+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, technical management, industrial engineering, or related manufacturing environments.
- 5+ years of experience leading technical, manufacturing, or operational teams.
- Demonstrated experience in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
- Practical understanding of complex manufacturing, assembly processes, technical workflows, and process standardization.
- Experience developing technical employees through structured OJT, skills assessments, training programs, or certification processes.
- Strong problem-solving, project management, and cross-functional leadership capabilities.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, manufacturing documentation, work instructions, and technical specifications.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Preferred qualifications
- Experience in automotive or aerospace manufacturing and assembly environments.
- Experience with electro-mechanical assemblies and complex industrial manufacturing processes.
- Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
- Lean Manufacturing certification or equivalent demonstrated experience.
- Experience implementing technical training programs across multiple manufacturing teams or locations.
- Experience developing skills matrices, qualification systems, and technical career development programs.
- Familiarity with ISO quality management systems and EHS requirements.
- Experience with manufacturing execution systems (MES), learning management systems (LMS), or digital workforce development tools.
- Experience in semiconductor equipment manufacturing or cleanroom environments.
- IPC-A-610 certification or comparable workmanship certification.
Education and certifications
Requirement
Preference
Engineering / Manufacturing / Operations degree
Preferred
Equivalent manufacturing leadership experience
Accepted
Six Sigma Green Belt / Black Belt
Preferred
Lean Manufacturing certification
Preferred
Technical training / OJT experience
Required
LMS expertise
Not a primary requirement
Travel requirements
Periodic travel to other UCT locations may be required to support technical development, process standardization, and operational improvement initiatives.
Ultra Clean Technology is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, and any other characteristic protected under laws and regulations.