Operations Manager

About Our Client

Our client is a growing, small manufacturing company proudly serving their customers with a commitment to quality, service, and continuous improvement. They believe in empowering their team members, promoting collaboration, and maintaining a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Job Summary

Our client is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead and oversee the daily manufacturing operations at their facility near Ames, Iowa. This key leadership role will focus on driving operational efficiency, ensuring high standards of quality and safety, and supporting the company’s growth initiatives. If you are a hands-on leader with a passion for continuous improvement and team development, this could be an excellent opportunity for you.

Key Responsibilities

Provide daily operational leadership for assigned manufacturing areas, achieving targets across cost, delivery, quality, and safety metrics.

Implement and optimize manufacturing and warehouse processes, utilizing ERP systems to enhance efficiency and inventory accuracy.

Drive throughput improvements to maximize productivity and reduce lead times, ensuring timely and accurate fulfillment of customer orders.

Manage and develop a diverse team of hourly and salaried employees; set clear goals, provide coaching, and foster an inclusive, high-performance culture.

Analyze operational performance data to identify trends, anticipate challenges, and proactively implement corrective actions.

Collaborate with the Quality team to uphold product quality, compliance, and delivery standards.

Identify and address process or material issues that may impact product quality or production timelines.

Promote and enforce a culture of safety, ensuring compliance with all regulations and best practices.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.

3+ years of operations management experience within a manufacturing or warehouse environment.

Strong background in LEAN continuous improvement methodologies, with demonstrated success.

Experience managing operational metrics and driving performance improvements.

Familiarity with quality assurance practices and product compliance standards.

Proven leadership experience managing both hourly and salaried staff.

Proficiency with ERP systems and a strong understanding of leveraging technology to improve operations.

Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a team-oriented mindset.

Why Join Our Client?

Join a close-knit, collaborative team where your leadership makes a direct impact.

Opportunity to grow with a company committed to investing in its people and operational excellence.

Competitive salary and benefits package.

Work in a dynamic environment that values innovation, quality, and continuous improvement.