Operations Manager

Overview:

We are looking for a hands-on leader who can look beyond immediate obstacles to craft and implement long-term strategies that drive organizational success. The Plant Manager must excel at communicating complex ideas clearly to diverse groups and establishing open, effective channels of information across all levels. A hands-on approach and strong relationship-building skills are essential, as is a consistent presence on the shop floor to foster trust and collaboration. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of growth management and will demonstrate a steadfast commitment to safety, process discipline and organizational accountability. A solid grasp of financial principles—ability to analyze metrics, interpret ROI, and optimize for cost efficiency—is required. Plant Manager should be adept at influencing and collaborating across organizational boundaries, uniting teams around shared goals and values. A proven track record in talent development and coaching, with the ability to identify and nurture future leaders, is highly valued.

Ideal Candidate:

Minimum of 7 years of operations management experience in a manufacturing environment, specifically metal stamping or blanking operations.

Proven experience managing safety, production, maintenance, and quality assurance programs.

Strong knowledge of fabrication processes and equipment (e.g., CNC, welding, stamping).

Strong knowledge of OSHA regulations and workplace safety practices.

Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills.

Demonstrated ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives (Lean/Six Sigma certification is highly desirable).

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and documentation - schematics, assembly drawings, operational manuals, safety rules, and standardized work instructions.

Collaboration, Team Development & Engagement

Key Areas of Work

Safety:

Establish, maintain, and enforce rigorous safety standards and policies to ensure a safe working environment for all employees.

Lead regular safety meetings, training sessions, and audits, promptly addressing hazards and implementing corrective actions.

Ensure compliance with OSHA and other regulatory bodies, in partnership with HR and safety team.

Production:

Direct plant operations including production scheduling, staffing, inventory control, and equipment utilization to meet customer demands.

Monitor daily production activities to meet efficiency, quality, and delivery targets.

Identify opportunities for improving operational efficiencies through continuous improvement initiatives (Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma methodologies).

Ensure quality control standards are consistently met.

Maintenance:

Oversee the plant's preventive and predictive maintenance programs to maximize equipment uptime and reliability.

Coordinate with the Maintenance Manager to prioritize repairs, upgrades, and new equipment installations.

Leadership & Management:

Provide strong leadership to supervisors, production teams, and maintenance personnel, promoting teamwork and clear communication.

Mentor and develop supervisory and management staff, ensuring growth and progression of the team.

Foster a positive working environment, maintaining high morale and encouraging accountability among employees.

Strategic Management:

Collaborate with senior management to define plant objectives aligned with organizational goals.

Evaluate plant operations regularly to ensure strategic goals are being met and proactively adjust plans, as necessary.

Lead, train and support supervisors and managers in paint, press, shipping and weld department.

Environmental Monitoring:

Knowledge of monitoring, permitting, reporting and compliance of stormwater, wastewater, air quality and others.

Measure and analyze various parameters to assess and control the factory's impact on the environment and ensure worker safety and product quality