**Company Overview**
We are a newly established furniture company, looking to develop and establish a name in the luxury furniture industry. We want to be known for creating high-quality, upholstered furniture pieces that merge functionality, safety, comfort, and aesthetic elegance. As part of our plan we are looking to set-up a new furniture production facility in Santiago, Dominican Republic. We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled professional or engineer (that knows furniture production) to spearhead this initiative, ensuring the seamless establishment and operation of this facility.
**Position Summary**
We are looking to contract and/or hire a highly skilled furniture professional or engineer that is very experienced and knowledgeable in producing high-end and high quality furniture products of all types. This is a brand new start-up facility, so the successful candidate will play a pivotal role in implementing this startup by developing, producing, and managing luxury furniture with a prime focus on upholstered and functional pieces. They must know every aspect of the furniture development and production process from beginning to end such as; reading and understanding 2d plans/blueprints, CNC, wood cutting, milling, finishing, paint, framing, upholstery and etc., (everything furniture related). Alot of our furniture designs will utilize various mechanical and mechanized components, such as electric recline, Bluetooth stereo, LED lighting and more. This role involves both technical designs and comprehensive production management, crucial for setting up and managing our new production facility.
(We are a USA based company, so the qualified candidate will be required to speak fluent english. If the candidate is able to speak English and Spanish it will be an added plus, since we will be operating in a Spanish speaking country)
**Key Responsibilities**
**1. Facility Development & Setup**:
**Project Planning & Execution**:
Lead the planning, setup, and implementation phases of our new furniture production facility.
Ensure all machinery, equipment, and technology meet high industry standards and are correctly installed.
**Infrastructure Coordination**:
Collaborate with equipment suppliers to ensure the facility meets operational requirements.
Oversee the installation of production lines, ensuring they are optimized for efficiency and quality.
**2. Product Engineering & Development**:
**Design & Innovation**:
Manage the design and development of luxury upholstered furniture, incorporating multi-functionality and ergonomic principles.
Drive innovation in furniture concepts, prioritizing safety, comfort, and aesthetic appeal.
**Technical Documentation**:
Maintain detailed technical documents, including 2d drawings, blueprints, CAD models, and process charts (Tech-pack).
Ensure all designs adhere to international safety and quality standards.
**Material & Process Selection**:
Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes to enhance product durability and finish.
Conduct cost-benefit analyses
Create different production methodologies.
**3. Production Management**:
**Operational Oversight**:
Develop and manage production schedules, ensuring timely and cost-effective manufacturing processes.
Establish and enforce stringent quality control protocols, conducting regular inspections throughout the production cycle.
**Supplier Coordination**:
Develop and maintain relationships with local material suppliers and workshops.
Work with suppliers, and local workshops on procurement terms to achieve cost efficiency without compromising quality.
**4. Market and Workforce Engagement**:
**Market Analysis & Strategy**:
Keep up with the local market to understand trends, consumer preferences, and competitive dynamics.
Use market insights to inform product development and positioning strategies.
**Labor Force Management**:
Recruit and manage skilled labor from the local market, ensuring alignment with production needs.
Develop training programs to enhance employee skills and promote best practices in furniture manufacturing.
**5. Leadership and Continuous Improvement**:
**Team Leadership**:
Lead a multidisciplinary team including designers, technicians, and production staff.
Provide technical mentorship and support to production personnel.
**Process Optimization**:
Analyze workflows to identify opportunities for process enhancements.
Implement lean manufacturing principles and methodologies to drive continuous improvement.
**Qualifications and Skills**
Have many years of experience in producing high-end luxury furniture or a Degree in Mechanical Engineering
Experience in furniture production, with a significant focus on "luxury" upholstered products.
**Technical Proficiencies**:
Proficiency in various software and tools.
Strong understanding of production techniques, material properties, and finishing processes unique to luxury furniture.
Able to read and understand furniture design drawings.
**Soft Skills**:
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Proficient in English
**Local Market Knowledge**:
- Established connections with local material suppliers and workshops.
- In-depth understanding of the local skilled labor market and industry dynamics.
**Benefits**
- **Compensation**:
- This will be determined based on skills and experience... and will have additional performance-based incentives.
- **Professional Growth**:
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
- **Work Environment**:
- An innovative, supportive work environment that encourages creativity and excellence.
**Conclusion**
We are excited about the development of our new furniture production facility in Santiago. We are looking for a forward-thinking engineer who shares our passion for excellence and innovation. Join us in creating exceptional furniture that not only meets but exceeds our clients' expectations, marking a new chapter in luxury furniture manufacturing.