Operations Manager

Operations Manager – E-Coat Facility

Location: Brighton, Michigan Department: Plant Operations Pay - $85,000 - $100,000 Reports To: President

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Operations Manager to lead daily operations at our e-coat (electrophoretic coating) facility. This critical leadership role is responsible for driving operational excellence, safety quality, and efficiency in a high-volume manufacturing environment focused on premium, protective coatings for metal components.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of e-coat production operations, including pretreatment, coating application, curing, and post-processing.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of production supervisors, technicians, and support staff to achieve safety, quality, and production targets.
• Optimize production schedules, throughput, and resource utilization while maintaining strict quality standards.
• Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and improve process efficiency.
• Ensure full compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations (EPA, OSHA, etc.), particularly those related to chemical handling, wastewater treatment, and hazardous materials in e-coat processes.
• Monitor and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) including First-Time Quality (FTQ), On-Time Delivery (OTD), scrap rates, uptime, and cost per unit.
• Troubleshoot process issues related to bath chemistry, voltage, temperature, coating thickness, and line performance.
• Collaborate with Maintenance, Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to minimize downtime and resolve technical challenges.
• Manage operating budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for capital improvements or process automation.
• Champion a strong safety culture and ensure all team members adhere to proper PPE and safe operating procedures.

Qualifications & Experience Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related technical field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 3 years in coatings, e-coat, powder coating, or automotive finishing operations.
• Strong working knowledge of e-coat chemistry, process parameters, equipment (rectifiers, tanks, UF systems, ovens), and troubleshooting.
• Proven track record in Lean/Six Sigma methodologies and data-driven decision making.
• Strong communication skills
• Knowledge of ERP systems

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary + performance bonus
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Paid time off and holidays
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth