Bloomington, IL · Full-time · Direct hire · $140,000–$150,000 a year · Job ID d52ec3b9
*Must have experience in complex manufacturing operations*
Operations Manager
Position Summary
The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all day-to-day plant operations within a complex manufacturing environment, preferably within the automotive supplier industry. This role ensures efficient production of high-quality products, on-time delivery, and achievement of cost and operational targets. Requires a hands-on leader with a proven ability to drive continuous improvement and sustainable results in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Operations Manager Responsibilities
- Oversee daily plant operations to achieve safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
- Lead production teams and ensure customer schedules and manufacturing requirements are met.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives, Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and operational efficiencies.
- Monitor labor efficiency, machine utilization, production performance, and operating costs.
- Lead and develop Production Supervisors, Team Leaders, Technicians, and production personnel.
- Ensure compliance with quality standards, customer-specific requirements, and safety policies.
- Lead root cause analysis and 8D corrective actions to address quality, downtime, and production issues.
- Support new program launches, production readiness, and manufacturing ramp-up activities.
- Identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve productivity, and increase plant profitability.
- Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient manufacturing environment.
- Communicate operational performance, improvement initiatives, and business results to senior management.
- Promote employee engagement, accountability, and a culture of operational excellence.
Education & Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience.
- Proven experience managing complex manufacturing operations; automotive supplier experience strongly preferred.
- Experience supporting new program launches and production ramp-ups.
- Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and problem-solving methodologies.
- Working knowledge of automotive quality systems and customer requirements.
- Experience with financial controls, budgeting, labor management, and operational KPIs.
- Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and decision-making skills.
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams, develop talent, and drive measurable operational results.