Senior Production Manager

Overview

A growing manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead manufacturing, packaging, warehousing, inventory, and distribution functions. This role is responsible for ensuring operational excellence across safety, quality, customer service, cost control, and regulatory compliance while driving continuous improvement initiatives throughout the facility.

The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader with strong experience managing production operations, leading teams, optimizing processes, and implementing Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct manufacturing, packaging, warehousing, receiving, and shipping operations to ensure achievement of company goals related to quality, cost, service, safety, and productivity.
• Lead and develop production teams through coaching, training, mentoring, and employee development initiatives.
• Establish and maintain operational policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Coordinate production schedules based on customer demand, inventory levels, and plant capacity.
• Oversee installation, maintenance, and utilization of production equipment.
• Monitor and control operational costs, inventory levels, labor utilization, and material management.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on waste reduction, operational efficiency, yield improvement, and cost savings.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Operational Excellence programs throughout the facility.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, safety, environmental, and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Manage inventory strategies to improve inventory turns while maintaining production requirements.
• Identify, recommend, and lead capital improvement and facility enhancement projects.
• Implement workplace organization initiatives and maintain strong focus on inventory accuracy, mass balance, yield optimization, and waste management.
• Balance production capacity and staffing requirements to meet operational goals.
• Develop reporting and forecasting related to manpower, facility utilization, equipment needs, and production costs.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree preferred.
• 8-10 years of manufacturing or operations leadership experience preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of supervisory or management experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience leading continuous improvement, Lean Manufacturing, and/or Six Sigma initiatives strongly preferred.

Technical Skills

• Strong business acumen and operational management capabilities.
• Experience with manufacturing equipment, preventative maintenance, and production processes.
• Working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical documentation.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience with inventory management, production planning, and cost control.
• Proficiency using precision measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.

Preferred Background

• Manufacturing operations leadership experience.
• Track record of improving efficiency, reducing waste, and increasing productivity.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams in a fast-paced production environment.
• Continuous improvement mindset with demonstrated success implementing operational excellence initiatives.