Production Manager

Job Description
We are establishing our first company-operated production facility for our growing commercial linear lighting business. We are looking for a Production Manager who can build the manufacturing operation from its earliest stage and guide it into full production.

This is not an established plant with an existing workforce, inherited procedures, or a finished operating model. You will help create the facility from the ground up, influencing equipment selection, production layout, operating practices, and the structure of the team.

The position requires a practical leader who is willing to work directly within the operation. During the launch phase, you may personally assist with fabrication, resolve equipment problems, complete electrical product work, or handle other duties needed to keep the facility moving forward.

You will report directly to the President during the initial setup and launch period. Once a VP of Manufacturing joins the company, the reporting line will transition to that position. As the facility develops, your responsibilities will grow alongside the production operation and its workforce.

This opportunity is intended for someone who has previously helped launch or transition a manufacturing facility. The right person will be comfortable developing operational plans, making technical decisions, and completing hands-on work whenever required.

Key Responsibilities
Facility Setup and Equipment

• Oversee the complete installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting of production machinery and equipment.
• Establish safety, quality, and regulatory compliance requirements before production activities begin.
• Manage the design, planning, layout, and physical development of the new manufacturing facility.

Operations and Engineering

• Develop practical operating plans that support the company's wider business strategy and production objectives.
• Coordinate the movement of production activities from the existing contract manufacturing provider into the new facility.
• Establish Lean manufacturing practices and embed them across the plant's daily operations.
• Improve production output, quality standards, operating efficiency, and overall manufacturing performance.
• Contribute to process improvement, manufacturability, and transfer-of-work projects.

Team Building

• Determine and organise staffing requirements according to present workloads and future order growth.
• Hire, train, and establish the facility's production and operational support workforce.
• Support team members through coaching, guidance, and ongoing development as the plant expands.
• Create a working environment that promotes safety, personal accountability, and continuous learning.

Hands-On Execution

• Complete practical duties when required, including light fabrication, product electrical work, equipment repairs, local deliveries, and administrative support.
• Provide flexible assistance across the facility until the operation has a complete and established team.

Communication

• Prepare and maintain operational records, performance documentation, and KPI reports.
• Keep executive leadership informed of facility progress, emerging risks, operational challenges, and improvement opportunities.
• Serve as the central communication point between the manufacturing facility and the executive leadership team.

Requirements
Required Qualifications

• Five or more years of experience in manufacturing operations, plant development, engineering leadership, or a related environment.
• Experience launching or transitioning a manufacturing facility from its initial development through full-rate production.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects where requirements and priorities may change.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, operational excellence, and continuous improvement principles.
• Experience using ERP platforms and managing production schedules, inventory, and quality management systems.
• Strong mechanical ability and a willingness to personally undertake technical and practical work.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related discipline, or equivalent hands-on professional experience.
• Ability to work independently, take ownership, and complete assignments with limited supervision.
• Strong communication, organisation, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
• Willingness and ability to travel for approximately 25% of the role.
• Ability to pass all required pre-employment checks, including background, drug and alcohol, and driving record screening.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ten or more years of relevant manufacturing, engineering, or operational experience.
• Previous experience in LED, electronics, or light-assembly manufacturing.

Benefits
Package

Base Salary: $95,000 to $110,000 per year, based on experience

Benefits:

• 401(k) retirement plan with a company contribution match of up to 4%.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, with the company covering 50% of the premium.
• Unlimited paid time off.

Haldren is a recruitment agency that provides services to clients ranging from startups and non profits to multinational corporations. Haldren emphasizes ethical search processes, attentive candidate care, and leadership placements that support long-term client outcomes.

To learn more about the firm and about our candidate services - please visit

US Recruitment Agency, Executive Search & Talent Solutions

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Haldren and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Haldren or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Commitment to Diversity: Haldren and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.

Reasonable Accommodations: Both Haldren and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.

Compensation Information: For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location.

Compliance with Laws: Both Haldren and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Workplace Harassment: Both Haldren and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

E-Verify Participation: Haldren and/or our clients may participate in E-Verify. Information about E-Verify participation will be provided during the application process where applicable.

Privacy and Pay Equity:

California Residents: For more information about the categories of personal information we collect for recruiting and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at .

Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.

Both Haldren and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.

State-Specific Information:

Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants.

Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.

New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.

Veteran Status: Both Haldren and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Recruitment

Haldren and our clients may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the recruitment and candidate evaluation process. These tools are used exclusively to support human decision-making by helping to review and assess candidate qualifications and materials. AI is never used to automatically reject, disqualify, or make final hiring decisions about candidates. All AI-assisted evaluations are reviewed by experienced recruitment professionals, and all hiring decisions are made by qualified human recruiters. Our use of AI is designed to enhance fairness, consistency, and efficiency while maintaining our commitment to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination principles.

Genetic Information: In accordance with federal and state laws, both Haldren and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.

Local Laws: Both Haldren and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.

Note: This job posting may be for a position with Haldren or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.