Production Manager

Commercial Linear Lighting Facility ManagerA growing commercial linear lighting company is opening its first company-owned production facility and needs someone to lead it from the ground up. There is no existing production team or established playbook to inherit. You will shape how the plant runs from the start, from equipment and layout decisions through to building the team that will operate it.This is a builder's role more than a manager's role. Early on, you will be doing as much as directing, including fabrication, equipment troubleshooting, and whatever else it takes to keep things moving. You will report to the President while the facility gets off the ground, with the line shifting to a newly hired VP of Manufacturing once that seat is filled, and your role expanding in scope as the plant and team grow around you.This suits someone who has taken a facility from early stage to running production before, is just as comfortable with a wrench in hand as with a project plan, and wants to be the one who builds the plant rather than the one who takes over an existing one.Key ResponsibilitiesFacility Setup and EquipmentLead the planning, layout, and buildout of a new manufacturing facility from the ground upOversee installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of production equipmentEnsure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards from day oneOperations and EngineeringTranslate business strategy into practical, day-to-day operational plansDrive continuous improvement across production, quality, and efficiencySupport process optimization and manufacturability initiatives, including transfer-of-work projectsImplement a Lean manufacturing strategy across the plantLead the transition of production workload from the current contract manufacturing partnerTeam BuildingRecruit, hire, and train a high-performing production and support team from zeroManage and organize staffing levels to meet current and growing order demandBuild a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous learningCoach and mentor team members as the facility scalesHands-On ExecutionPerform hands-on tasks personally when needed, including light fabrication, equipment troubleshooting, product electrical work, local deliveries, and administrative dutiesAct as a flexible, get-it-done resource until the team is fully built outCommunicationServe as the main link between plant operations and executive leadershipProvide regular updates on progress, risks, and opportunitiesMaintain clear documentation and KPI reporting