Production Manager

Production Manager

Location: Madison, Wi

Job Type: Full-time

UPC is a leading company in the design and manufacturing of custom retail display fixtures, committed to delivering high-quality, innovative solutions for retail, commercial, and exhibition spaces. Our team thrives on precision, creativity, and efficiency, ensuring that every fixture meets the highest standards of craftsmanship and functionality.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a hands-on Production Manager to oversee and optimize our manufacturing operations. This role requires direct participation in production processes alongside managing workflow, ensuring quality control, and acting as a key communication channel between the production facility and administrative offices. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, technical expertise, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities:

• Production Oversight: Manage daily manufacturing operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and timely completion of projects.
• Hands-On Participation: Engage in production processes when necessary, assisting with fabrication, assembly, and troubleshooting.
• Scheduling: Plan and establish work schedules, assignments, and production sequences to meet production goals.
• Team Leadership: Supervise and mentor production staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Team management: Advise on and implement personnel decisions related to hiring, firing, performance evaluations, and promotions.
• Process Optimization: Identify opportunities for improving workflow, reducing waste, and enhancing productivity.
• Quality Control: Ensure all products meet design specifications and industry standards before delivery.
• Communication & Coordination: Serve as the liaison between production teams and administrative offices, facilitating clear communication on project timelines, resource needs, and operational challenges.
• Inventory & Resource Management: Oversee material procurement, stock levels, and equipment maintenance to support uninterrupted production.
• Safety & Compliance: Enforce workplace safety protocols and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Required: Hands-on manufacturing experience in a production environment.
• Proven experience in production management, preferably in custom retail display fixture manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and equipment.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively across departments and resolve operational challenges.
• Proficiency in production planning, workflow optimization, and quality assurance.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and compliance standards.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with CAD software or other design tools related to fixture manufacturing.
• Background in lean manufacturing or process improvement methodologies.
• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience).

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Collaborative and innovative work environment
• 401K with company match

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