Assistant Operations Manager

At KI, we believe knowing our customers helps us serve them better. We listen. We observe. We understand that each customer has unique needs. So, we pride ourselves on helping our customers make smart furniture decisions by offering expert advice, design options and personalized solutions. Since 1941, we've positioned KI as the furniture company that best understands the furniture industry and is committed to providing customers with the smart solutions. By targeting specific markets with solutions for business furniture, university furniture, educational furniture, healthcare furniture and government furniture, we can quickly respond to our customers' unique needs - including the choice to procure furniture according to what fits their ordering and fulfillment process. That's why we say we offer far more than furniture. We're Furnishing Knowledge.

Position Summary

The Assistant Operations Manager drives continuous improvement and supports plant operations through cross-functional coordination. This role partners with Operations and Engineering to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.

Salary: 75,000 - 95,000 a year

Pay will be based on experience, skills, and qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Lean/continuous improvement initiatives and Kaizen events

Analyze KPIs to identify inefficiencies and drive process improvements

Partner with Engineering on process optimization and standardization

Lead and develop operations support team members

Support resolution of production and quality issues

Monitor performance and escalate risks impacting plant goals

Ensure compliance with safety and company standards

Communicate performance, priorities, and improvement updates Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business, or related field

3+ years of manufacturing/operations or CI experience

Lean knowledge (6S, VSM, JIT, etc.)

Strong problem-solving and data analysis skills

Leadership experience preferred

Lean or Six Sigma certification preferred Benefits Overview

KI offers a competitive benefits package designed to support you and your family, including:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

401(k) with company match

Paid vacation, sick time and holidays

Life and disability insurance

Onsite nurse

Onsite fitness center

Employee assistance program

Opportunities for professional development and growth

Join KI and help drive operational excellence across our Manitowoc facility.

KI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.