Operations Manager - Plastic Injection Molding

Key Areas of Responsibility

• Provide operational support to the Vice President of Operations and the General Managers for Minnesota and California operations.
• Oversee order processing, molding production, secondary operations, and shipping activities.
• Lead program management efforts for new product launches to ensure timely and successful production introduction.
• Drive high standards in quality, on-time delivery, and overall customer satisfaction.
• Manage inventory control and accuracy across operations.
• Promote and maintain workplace safety initiatives.
• Support workforce planning and labor management activities.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Uphold and reinforce 5S standards throughout operations to maintain a safe, efficient, and organized facility environment in Brooksville.
• Support compliance with ISO standards and quality system requirements.
• Coordinate and manage the launch of new production programs within the California operation.
• Partner with Engineering teams to ensure projects are introduced on schedule using cost-effective tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing processes.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and increase product profitability.
• Conduct capacity planning and resource analysis for labor, equipment, and supplier capabilities.
• Oversee quality operations in California with a focus on continuous improvement, standardized work practices, and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Track machine utilization and implement improvements that increase throughput and operational performance.
• Balance labor allocation to maintain targeted labor-to-sales ratios.
• Work closely with Customer Service, Production, Planning, and Purchasing teams to ensure accurate production scheduling and timely fulfillment of work orders.
• Support ERP system utilization and process improvements across departments.
• Monitor bills of materials (BOMs) and labor availability to support on-time customer delivery.
• Mentor, coach, and support employee growth through performance management and ongoing development.
• Foster a positive, team-oriented culture that values employee contributions and continuous improvement.
• Represent the organization professionally within the community and industry.

Leadership & Management Responsibilities

• Serve as a member of the divisional leadership team, contributing to operational strategy, goal setting, and achievement of business objectives.
• Lead staffing efforts and conduct annual performance evaluations for direct labor employees.
• Supervise employees in accordance with company policies, safety standards, and applicable employment laws.
• Support recruiting, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, training, scheduling, and performance management activities.
• Maintain a safe working environment while promoting accountability and operational excellence.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in plastic injection molding manufacturing environments.
• 5–7 years of leadership or management experience with a proven ability to motivate and develop teams.
• Strong knowledge of injection molding processes and manufacturing operations.
• Experience implementing continuous improvement initiatives such as Lean Manufacturing or similar process improvement methodologies.
• Familiarity with quality systems, GMP standards, and manufacturing best practices.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and ERP systems.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated with strong organizational and leadership abilities.
• Comfortable making decisions independently while also empowering team members through delegation.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain a collaborative, team-focused work environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds as needed.
• Position primarily involves seated work and extended periods of computer use.
• Frequent bending, reaching, pushing, and pulling may be required.