About AESC US LLC 

AESC is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-performance batteries for zero-emission electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Founded in Japan in 2007 and headquartered in Yokohama, AESC has been building manufacturing capabilities around the world in the U.S., U.K., Europe, Japan and China to serve key markets and leading customers locally for over 14 years. Today, AESC has become the partner of choice for the world’s leading OEMs and energy storage providers in North America, Europe, and Asia. Its advanced technology powers over one million electric vehicles and provides more than 15GWh of installed capacity for battery energy systems in over 60 countries. 

AESC is expanding its footprint in the United States with gigafactories in Kentucky, South Carolina, and Tennessee to meet the growing demand for EV and BESS batteries and strengthen its presence in the North American market. AESC's Tennessee gigafactory in Smyrna, which has been operational since 2012, produces batteries for Nissan. The Kentucky gigafactory in Bowling Green will supply Mercedes-Benz with high-performance battery cell modules. The South Carolina gigafactory in Florence will supply technology-leading battery cells for new electric models produced in BMW Group's Spartanburg plant. AESC is committed to our local communities where it is making its investments, creating jobs, and supporting local charities. 

About the Role

As the Project Director for Line 2 in the Smyrna facility within you will oversee the successful planning, design, and construction of large-scale gigafactory projects. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role is integral to developing the strategic and operational plans for each major project, ensuring alignment with corporate goals, and delivering projects on time and within budget. The Project Director will lead cross-functional teams, drive innovation, and collaborate with key departments to ensure successful project execution in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.

What You Will Do 

Strategic Leadership:

• Drive a culture of safety, innovation, and employee engagement throughout all construction phases.
• Develop and implement strategic and operational plans for each major project, ensuring alignment with company goals.
• Lead cross-functional teams to execute the project scope, including Electrical, Controls, Mechanical, Process, Life Safety, Civil, and Architectural work.
• Provide strategic input into the construction organization to support the growth and success of the Bowling Green facility.
• Set operational Key Performance Indicator (KPI) objectives and implement strategies to meet or exceed targets.

Project Execution & Management:

• Successfully deliver large-scale design-build projects, managing self-performed construction efforts to ensure projects are completed on time and within scope.
• Oversee all aspects of project execution, including budgeting, resource allocation, and risk management, while promoting a safe, quality-driven culture.
• Manage complex project scopes, applying advanced knowledge in Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, and Life Safety systems.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations, including IATF16949, VDA 6.3, and ISO14001 standards.
• Ensure the on-time or early delivery of projects by fostering problem-solving and prioritizing execution among teams.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead and mentor a high-performing team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement in construction and project execution.
• Build a collaborative environment, working closely with Global Manufacturing, Engineering, Procurement, Operations, Quality, Finance, and Supply Chain teams to align project goals.
• Develop talent within the organization by training and mentoring team members on best practices for project management and execution.
• Manage key projects as assigned, ensuring high standards of performance and delivery.

Cross-functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with departments such as Global Engineering, Procurement, Operations, and Finance to ensure project success.
• Foster collaboration between various teams to ensure smooth integration of engineering and construction projects with manufacturing operations.
• Drive cross-functional initiatives, ensuring seamless project handover from construction to operations and commissioning phases.
• Continuous Improvement & Innovation:
• Promote lean manufacturing principles and apply process improvement techniques to optimize project performance and cost efficiency.
• Identify risks and opportunities for cost-saving initiatives while maintaining overall profitability through innovation and process improvements.
• Drive initiatives related to zero-carbon industrial parks and value chain sustainability.

What You Need

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field. 
• 10+ years of experience managing large-scale commercial or industrial construction or projects, preferably within a $100m+ project scope. 
• Proven track record of delivering complex construction projects on time and within budget in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Expertise in managing civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and life safety systems for large industrial projects. 
• Experience working within a global manufacturing environment, with a deep understanding of safety and environmental regulations.
• Experience in lean manufacturing principles and working on industrial projects with aggressive timelines and goals. 

Skills & Competencies: 

• Advanced project management skills with demonstrated success in managing large-scale projects from concept through delivery. 
• Excellent communication, leadership, and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire and guide cross-functional teams. 
• Strong financial acumen and experience with budget management, cost control, and financial reporting for large-scale projects. 
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and drive collaboration across various departments. 
• Ability to thrive in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment while maintaining a positive and can-do mindset.
• The following two bullets are required for all job postings:
• Understands and follows all standards of IATF16949 and VDA 6.3 quality standards. (training and awareness will be provided for those who are not familiar with these standards)
• Understands and follows all standards of ISO14001 environmental standards. (training and awareness will be provided for those who are not familiar with these standards)

What is “Nice to Have”?

• Certifications in Project Management (PMP), Lean Six Sigma, or related disciplines are a plus. 
• Experience working on global projects across multiple regions and managing cross-cultural teams.
• Master’s degree is preferred.

Travel

This role will require up to 30% domestic and international travel to oversee project execution, site visits, and collaboration with global teams.