Manufacturing Manager

Manufacturing Manager

The Manufacturing Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the production process, while ensuring that efficiency, quality, and safety standards are maintained. The role emphasizes continuous improvement within manufacturing operations, fostering a culture of innovation, process optimization, and the integration of lean manufacturing principles.

This position will work closely with cross-functional teams to identify, implement, and monitor continuous improvement initiatives across all stages of the manufacturing lifecycle.

Organizational Relationship:

This position reports directly to the Director of Operations.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position will have 4 direct reports across a 24/7 operation. Will have an oversight of approximately 120 direct & indirect production associates.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

Production Oversight and Planning:

• Manage daily operations of the manufacturing floor to ensure production goals are met in terms of safety, quality, cost, and delivery.
• Collaborate with the supply chain, engineering, and quality teams to ensure efficient production schedules and product flow.
• Supervise the activities of production staff, including scheduling, training, and performance evaluations.

Continuous Improvement:

• Lead the implementation of continuous improvement strategies utilizing lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other process improvement methodologies.
• Conduct regular assessments of manufacturing processes and identify areas for improvement to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and lower operational costs.
• Champion the development and execution of improvement initiatives that align with the company's goals and strategic objectives.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Provide leadership and guidance to manufacturing supervisors, operators, and support staff.
• Foster a culture of innovation and engagement within the manufacturing team, encouraging proactive problem-solving and the sharing of ideas for process improvements.
• Conduct training programs on lean principles, process optimization techniques, and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and environmental regulations, while promoting a safe working environment.

Quality Assurance and Compliance:

• Ensure the production of high-quality products by implementing robust quality control measures.
• Work closely with the quality assurance team to address any non-conformance and identify corrective actions.
• Drive adherence to relevant manufacturing standards.
• Analyze production data to monitor quality trends, identify root causes of issues, and implement corrective actions.

Performance Metrics and Reporting:

• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and team performance.
• Report on progress and performance of continuous improvement initiatives to senior leadership.
• Provide regular updates to the team regarding performance metrics and improvement goals.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate with other departments (e.g., Engineering, R&D, Procurement, Maintenance) to resolve operational challenges and improve production processes.
• Communicate with upper management regarding the status of ongoing projects, issues, and opportunities for improvement.

Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement tools (e.g., Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Root Cause Analysis).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to drive results in a dynamic environment.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, balancing day-to-day operations with long-term strategic goals.
• Experience in budgeting, resource allocation, and cost control.
• Familiarity with quality standards and certifications (e.g., ISO, QS).

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field or 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing management role, with at least 3 years focused on continuous improvement initiatives.
• Proven experience implementing lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other process improvement frameworks.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and other manufacturing software.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to push, pull, lift, move and/or carry up to 25lbs.
• Ability to frequently reach overhead.
• Ability to frequently stoop, bend and kneel.

Working Conditions:

• Requires wearing PPE (Safety Shoes, Safety Glasses, Hearing Protection, Cutting Glove and sleeve).
• This role requires working in a industrial setting, with occasional lifting or moving of inventory.
• May include both office and on-site duties.