Operations Data Systems Specialist

About the Role

General Dynamics Land Systems is seeking a Mid-Level Manufacturing Data Systems Specialist in Kuwait to design, develop, and support data-driven solutions for our manufacturing operations. This role combines hands-on software development, SQL/database expertise, data analysis, and manufacturing process flow design. The ideal candidate has several years of experience, works independently with limited guidance, and partners closely with manufacturing, quality, and IT to improve throughput, quality, and overall efficiency.

Responsibilities to Anticipate in this Role

• Application Development
• Design, develop, test, and maintain production-ready software tools and scripts to support manufacturing operations (e.g., data collection, dashboards, work instructions, traceability tools).
• Enhance and support existing applications, including troubleshooting, bug fixes, and incremental improvements.
• Automate repetitive tasks and manual processes to reduce errors and cycle time.

• Database Design & Management
• Design and implement relational databases to support manufacturing data needs (production, quality, test, and traceability data).
• Develop and maintain database schemas, tables, views, stored procedures, and indexes.
• Monitor and improve database performance, data integrity, and security in collaboration with IT.
• SQL & Data Analysis
• Write efficient, complex SQL queries to extract, transform, and analyze data from multiple systems.
• Build recurring and ad-hoc reports or dashboards to provide actionable insights on production performance, quality metrics, and process capability.
• Perform root-cause and trend analysis using production and quality data to support continuous improvement and problem-solving activities.
• Manufacturing Process Flow & Sequencing
• Develop and document manufacturing process flows, routings, and operation sequences in collaboration with manufacturing Engineers
• Translate process requirements into system logic (e.g., routing rules, work instructions, data collection points, validation rules).
• Use data to support line balancing, takt time analysis, and process optimization.
• Collaboration & Support
• Work closely with manufacturing Specialists, production supervisors, quality, and IT to understand requirements and deliver practical solutions.
• Provide user training, documentation, and ongoing support for developed tools and systems.
• Participate in cross-functional projects, representing manufacturing data and systems needs.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Education
• Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Software Development, Industrial/Manufacturing, Information Systems, or related field; or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience
• 35 years of experience in software development, data /analysis, or manufacturing systems.
• Experience working in a manufacturing or industrial environment is strongly preferred.
• Valid U.S. passport and ability to pass a background investigation to obtain a work visa.
• Ability to pass a deployment physical.
• Ability to be issued and maintain a company-issued credit card.
• Prior work experience in the MENA region is desirable.
• Positive, professional attitude.
• Technical Skills
• Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., C#, Python, Java, or similar) for building production tools and scripts.
• Strong SQL skills, including joins, subqueries, stored procedures, and basic performance tuning.
• Experience designing and working with relational databases (e.g., SQL Server, PostgreSQL, Oracle, MySQL).
• Ability to analyze and interpret large datasets; experience with reporting or BI tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau, SSRS) is a plus.
• Understanding of core manufacturing concepts such as routings, BOMs, work centers, takt time, and standard work.
• Familiarity with version control (e.g., Git) and standard software development practices (code reviews, testing, documentation).

• Soft Skills
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills with a data-driven mindset.
• Ability to translate manufacturing needs into clear technical requirements and solutions.
• Effective communication skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and projects in a production environment with minimal supervision.

• Preferred Experience (Nice to Have)
• Experience with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and/or ERP integration.
• Background in discrete manufacturing or defense/automotive/industrial settings.
• Exposure to Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with ETL processes or scripting for data pipelines (e.g., Python, SSIS, or similar tools).
• Familiarity with APIs, web services, or other integration technologies.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.