Production Manager
Hamel, MN | Direct-Hire | $90,000–$120,000 Base
Konik is partnering with a growing manufacturing organization seeking a Production Manager to lead daily manufacturing operations, develop production teams, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. This role is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production while improving processes, developing employees, and supporting long-term operational goals.
The ideal candidate will have progressive leadership experience within a manufacturing environment and a proven ability to improve safety, quality, productivity, and delivery performance. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on manufacturing leader who enjoys building teams, solving problems, and creating a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Production Manager Responsibilities
- Lead daily production operations, ensuring safety, quality, productivity, and delivery goals are achieved.
- Develop, coach, and support production supervisors and team members to build a strong, accountable workforce.
- Manage production workflows, staffing, scheduling, and resource allocation to meet customer demands.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), including safety, quality, throughput, labor efficiency, scrap, and schedule attainment.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing principles, including Kaizen, 5S, Standard Work, and process improvement methodologies.
- Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and optimize manufacturing processes.
- Partner with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Sales teams to resolve production challenges and improve operations.
- Establish and maintain standard processes, visual management tools, and production reporting systems.
- Support employee development through coaching, training, performance feedback, and accountability.
- Analyze production data and implement corrective actions to improve operational performance.
- Promote a positive workplace culture focused on teamwork, ownership, and continuous improvement.
- Support business initiatives and operational changes while maintaining employee engagement.
Production Manager Qualifications
- 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Experience managing production teams within a manufacturing, assembly, or precision manufacturing environment.
- Proven success improving safety, quality, productivity, and on-time delivery performance.
- Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, production workflows, and operational best practices.
- Experience establishing and tracking production metrics and KPIs.
- Proficient with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office applications, including Excel.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Strong ability to build trust, develop employees, and create a culture of accountability.
Production Manager Preferred Qualifications
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Business, or related technical field.
- Experience with complex assembly or precision manufacturing environments.
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing certifications or formal continuous improvement training.
- Experience supporting cross-functional initiatives involving Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Production.
- Experience leading operational improvement projects.
Compensation & Benefits
- Paid time off
- Health insurance
- Health savings account (HSA)
- Dental and vision insurance
- 401(k) with Roth option
- Life and disability insurance
- Tuition reimbursement
- Discretionary profit-sharing bonus
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Konik is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other protected class status.
Konik has been a leader in the technical staffing industry for more than 50 years, providing the fastest and easiest link between employees and employers. Konik has specialized in placing professional, qualified personnel in Minnesota and western Wisconsin businesses since its inception and maintains a strong commitment to customer service.