Candace Jenkins
Ladson,SC
Summary
Detail-oriented manufacturing professional with 5+ years of experience in high-volume production environments, including Volvo Cars. Strong background in quality inspection, defect identification, and process adherence. Proven ability to support quality standards, train team members, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives. Expert at navigating launch timelines, coordinating with Engineering, Logistics, and Quality departments to ensure seamless plant introduction to vehicle builds. Adept at maintaining compliance with production procedures and ensuring product integrity in fast-paced settings.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Plant Launch Team Leader
Volvo Car USA
Ridgeville, SC
01.2023 - Current
- Executed a multi-phase launch strategy in progression from initial part prototyping in to full-scale vehicle production.
- Skilled in using 5-Why and Fishbone diagrams to troubleshoot issues between engines and gearboxes during pilot builds.
- Monitored Team Member (TM) progression through standardized skill matrices, ensuring the crew reached peak operational efficiency prior to plant launch.
- Translated complex 3D engineering data from Teamcenter into simplified, one-sentence SOPs, reducing technical ambiguity for production Team Members.
- Led root-cause analysis sessions during the pilot build phase to identify and eliminate bottlenecks while implementing ICA, PCA and ERA.
- Engaged in feedback loop with Design Team and Suppliers to report assembly-stage interference issues, resulting in design adjustments that improved overall build quality.
- Utilized Teamcenter (TC) to interpret 3D CAD models and engineering schematics, identifying potential assembly interference issues
Production Team Member
Volvo Cars USA
Ridgeville, SC
01.2019 - Current
- Performed assembly and inspection tasks in a high-volume manufacturing environment while adhering to strict quality and safety standards
- Verified correct torque values and assembly specifications to ensure product quality and compliance
- Identified and reported production and quality issues, supporting corrective actions and minimizing defects
- Followed standardized work instructions (OIS/WES) to maintain consistency and process control
- Trained new and temporary employees on production processes, safety procedures, and quality expectations
- Rotated across multiple stations, increasing flexibility and understanding of full production workflow
- Maintained organized and efficient workstations using 5S and lean manufacturing principles
Production Worker
MAHLE Behr Charleston
North Charleston, South Carolina
08.2018 - 12.2019
- Conducted leak testing and functional checks to ensure product quality and detect defects
- Operated mechanical equipment to manufacture components in compliance with engineering specifications
- Assembled radiators using proper tools, gauges, and hardware to meet quality standards
- Demonstrated understanding of product failure modes and supported defect prevention
- Met production and quality targets in a fast-paced environment
- Trained new associates on equipment operation and quality procedures
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of work areas in alignment with 5S standards
Education
Associate of Science - Business Administration And Management
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZAssociate of Science - Mechanical Engineering
ECPI University Charleston
Charleston, SCSkills
- Documentation & Reporting
- Precision Communication
- Attention to detail
- Adaptability
- Quality Assurance & Inspection
- Technical & Critical Thinker
Timeline
Plant Launch Team Leader
Volvo Car USA
01.2023 - Current
Production Team Member
Volvo Cars USA
01.2019 - Current
Production Worker
MAHLE Behr Charleston
08.2018 - 12.2019
Associate of Science - Business Administration And Management
Grand Canyon University
Associate of Science - Mechanical Engineering
ECPI University Charleston