Production Manager

American Plastics, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative plastic injection molded products for the household & garage storage and commercial cleaning end-markets. We are searching for a Production Manager for our South Carolina location.

About the role

The Production Manager is responsible for directing a team of production supervisors, production staff, and support staff, totaling approximately 80 production personnel. This role oversees all daily activities within the plant, including leading a zero-injury work culture, production functions, driving continuous improvement, plant organization, housekeeping, and other duties as required. The Production Manager must have a strong understanding of the injection molding process, TPS systems, and the production work order process, with the ability to generate and maintain effective daily and weekly schedules. This position reports to the Plant Manager.

Responsibilities

• Implement Lean Manufacturing Standards and Improvement Opportunities.
• Drive continuous improvement and scrap analysis to include reduction.
• Practice proper PPE compliance and maintain a safe working record and environment.
• Perform mold changes and new mold startups.
• Meet or exceed standard production efficiencies on all production lines.
• Schedule weekly production and tooling changeovers.
• Lead and develop process technicians, supervisors, and mold setters.
• Troubleshoot equipment/process problems.
• Issue work assignments and ensure orders are started, paused, and stopped properly.
• Implement and maintain 6S standards in support of ensuring a safe and clean work environment.
• Work with other department leaders to ensure a safe, inclusive environment for all employees.
• Daily scheduling of all manufacturing equipment, machine capacity, and balancing the dates customers require their material to be shipped.
• Plan, develop, and implement organization policies and goals to ensure alignment with facility and corporate goals, objectives, and initiatives.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as requested or required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Business Management, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of related experience; Plastic Injection knowledge is a MUST.
• Hybrid role – Willing to roll up sleeves and be on the floor as well as handle office management.
• Production Management Experience – 5 years minimum.
• Not a desk job – Looking for someone to be on the floor with a “roll up your sleeves and get the job done” mindset.
• Must be a team player with strong and effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing, and interact with people.
• Demonstrated proficiency with PC software (Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.); ability to learn/use ERP system (AS400 experience is highly preferred).
• Minimum travel required.

Skills

• Familiarity and knowledge of the following machines:
  • Injection Molding Machines 500 – 2000 tons
  • Toshiba
  • UBE
  • Milacron
  • Whittmann Robotics and Automation in general

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Full benefit package including medical/dental
• 401k
• Paid vacation