Ricardo Figueiredo
Gloucester
Summary
Dedicated and results-oriented Manufacturing Lead with 11 years of hands-on experience in high-precision manufacturing environments. Progressive career growth from Machine Press Operator to Manufacturing Lead at Applied Materials. Skilled in lean production, team leadership, and continuous improvement, with a proven ability to enhance efficiency, quality, and safety across operations. Recognized for strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a leadership style that motivates teams to deliver excellence.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Manufacturing Lead
Applied Materials
06.2020 - 08.2025
- Lead production operations for a team of technicians and assemblers, ensuring schedule adherence, product quality, and safety compliance.
- Implemented Lean Manufacturing initiatives that improved throughput by 15% and reduced process waste.
- Collaborated with cross-functional engineering and quality teams to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.
- Mentored and trained new employees on production processes, safety standards, and best practices.
- Managed production documentation, shift coordination, and performance tracking through MES/ERP systems.
- Material Releases - Verify and approve material z-picks generated for production orders. Ensure accuracy of picked quantities and material codes. Coordinate with the warehouse to resolve any material shortages or discrepancies. Confirm all critical components are available prior to order release to avoid production stoppage. Monitor z-picks completion status and escalate any delays affecting production schedules.
- Migo Releases - Review, approve and ensure that material receipts are properly aligned with production for accuracy and completeness. Validate quantity, batch numbers, and storage locations before confirming Migo entries. Coordinate with Quality and warehouse teams for timely release of materials post-inspection. Maintain compliance with documentation and audit requirements for material movements.
- Kanban Releases - Oversee Kanban signal releases for replenishment of production line materials. Ensure Kanban triggers are accurately reflected in the system and communicated to supplier and warehouse. Verify that replenishment cycles align with production consumption. Monitor Kanban inventory levels to prevent material shortages. Support continuous improvement initiatives to optimize Kanban flow and reduce lead time.
Mechanical Assembler
Applied Materials
01.2017 - 06.2020
- Assembled and tested precision components for semiconductor manufacturing systems in a cleanroom environment.
- Read and interpret complex engineering blueprints and specifications.
- Assisted in developing standard operating procedures that improved consistency and reduced rework.
- Supported preventive maintenance efforts to ensure optimal machine performance.
- Promoted to Manufacturing Lead based on technical skill, reliability, and leadership ability.
Machine Press Operator
Bomco, Inc.
03.2013 - 10.2016
- Operated mechanical and hydraulic press machines to form precision metal components to specification.
- Conducted quality checks using calipers, micrometers, and gauges to maintain tight tolerances.
- Adjusted machine settings and tooling to optimize production runs and reduce scrap.
- Adhered to strict safety standards and performed daily equipment inspections.
- Supported process improvement initiatives that reduced material waste by 10%.
Education
Diploma -
Gloucester High School
01.1996
Skills
- Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
- Mechanical & Electromechanical Assembly
- Machine Operation & Setup
- Team Leadership & Training
- Quality Assurance / ISO 9001
- Root Cause Analysis / Process Optimization
- ERP / MES Systems (SAP, Oracle, etc)
- Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting
- Safety & Compliance (EHS / OSHA)
- Production planning proficiency
- Analytical thinking
- Advanced problem solving
- Cross-functional team leadership
- Materials management expertise
Timeline
Manufacturing Lead
Applied Materials
06.2020 - 08.2025
Mechanical Assembler
Applied Materials
01.2017 - 06.2020
Machine Press Operator
Bomco, Inc.
03.2013 - 10.2016
Diploma -
Gloucester High School