ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUPERVISOR/EXPERT

Position Summary 

The Economic Development Supervisor/Expert will serve as the Field Engineer, a high-impact consultant role within Arkansas Manufacturing Solutions (AMS), a national Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center under Arkansas Workforce Connections. This dynamic position is responsible for driving transformative change for manufacturing clients by delivering strategic, operational, and technology-driven solutions that enhance competitiveness.

With significant autonomy, Field Engineer collaborates with client leadership to improve operations, stimulate competitive growth, and shape the future of manufacturing in Arkansas. Key focus areas include operational excellence, leadership development, supply chain optimization, and smart manufacturing.

This role offers a unique opportunity to lead high-impact initiatives with the agility of a top-tier consulting firm, while operating within the established framework of state and federal laws and agency policies.

This position requires on-site employment with no remote or hybrid options available.

Preferred Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, manufacturing, or a related field; plus eight years of progressive experience in manufacturing leadership, consulting, or related areas, with a strong preference for candidates with plant management or higher-level leadership roles.

Experience with emerging technologies (e.g., automation, Industry 4.0), advanced certifications like Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or PMP, a proven track record of leading transformative projects across diverse manufacturing sectors, and business acumen with C-suite engagement are highly desirable.

• Ability to drive innovation in manufacturing through expertise in lean principles, continuous improvement, supply chain optimization, strategic planning, and technology adoption.
• Strong project management skills to orchestrate complex, multi-faceted initiatives under tight deadlines.
• Exceptional communication skills, both oral and written, to inspire executive leadership and deliver compelling presentations to diverse audiences.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose challenges and craft high-impact solutions.
• Proficiency in leveraging data-driven insights and digital tools to enhance client outcomes.
• Expertise in building trusted relationships with clients, stakeholders, and third-party providers while thriving in diverse manufacturing environments.

Job Responsibilities and Expected Results

1. Evaluate client manufacturing operations to pinpoint competitive strengths and uncover transformative growth opportunities.
2. Spearhead customized projects in areas like lean manufacturing, leadership development, supply chain optimization, or smart manufacturing, aligning with client strategic goals.
3. Deliver high-impact consulting services directly or orchestrate third-party resources to achieve client objectives efficiently.
4. Lead projects with precision, adhering to timelines, budgets, and reporting standards while driving measurable, transformative results.
5. Champion innovative solutions, such as smart manufacturing or digital transformation, to position clients at the forefront of industry trends.
6. Identify and pursue new client opportunities to expand AMS’s market presence and drive business growth.
7. Serve as a trusted advisor to client executives, empowering leadership and fostering sustainable growth through strategic guidance.
8. Perform other duties as assigned.

Key Business Processes

1. Conduct in-depth clients need assessments to identify strategic and operational improvement opportunities. 
2. Develop and execute tailored consulting projects in areas such as lean manufacturing, leadership development, supply chain management, or technology adoption. 
3. Deliver or oversee high-value consulting services to achieve outstanding client outcomes. 
4. Manage projects and complete reporting in accordance with AMS procedures and MEP standards. 
5. Enter and maintain accurate client and project information in Salesforce and/or other designated databases to ensure effective tracking and reporting. 
6. Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships to ensure sustained engagement and repeat business. 
7. Represent AMS at industry events, conferences, and client meetings to promote services and build the center’s reputation. 
8. Foster collaborative relationships with AMS colleagues and third-party service providers to deliver seamless solutions. 
9. Engage in continuous professional development to stay current on manufacturing trends, technologies, and best practices. 
10. Contribute to the evaluation and enhancement of AMS service offerings to meet evolving industry demands. 
11. Participate actively in staff meetings, industry conferences, and other relevant forums to advance AMS objectives.