Production Manager

Overview

The Production Manager is responsible for the direct leadership and optimization of manufacturing operations within our large-scale motor and generator facility. This role focuses on meeting production targets, ensuring departmental safety, and driving high-quality output. The ideal candidate exhibits deep technical manufacturing knowledge and the ability to lead a diverse team toward operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Production Execution: Directly oversee daily manufacturing operations, including assembly, winding, machining, welding, press, test/vpi and maintenance to ensure on-time delivery of motors and generators.
• Workflow Optimization: Drive continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma) to increase efficiency, reduce cycle times, and optimize floor throughput to achieve on time delivery.
• Scheduling: Responsible for the end-to-end manufacturing cycle, providing direct leadership and guidance to the Production Planner to ensure schedules align with capacity and customer demand.
• Resource Management: Manage production schedules, labor allocation, and departmental budgets to meet cost and productivity targets.
• Safety Leadership: Champion a "safety first" culture on the floor, ensuring all team members comply with OSHA standards and internal safety protocols.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with the Materials Manager, Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance to resolve technical bottlenecks and support product innovation.
• Team Development: Mentor shop floor supervisors, leads and operators, fostering accountability, professional growth, and a high-performance culture.
• KPI Tracking: Monitor and report on production KPIs (OTD, rework, scrap, and labor efficiency), adjusting floor strategies as needed.
• Compliance: Ensure all production activities and technical data handling comply with U.S. export control laws (ITAR/EAR). Maintain secured records of technical data transfers and lead by example in compliance matters.

Desired Qualifications & Competencies

• Education: High School Diploma/GED required; BS in Engineering, Operations, or a related technical field is highly preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive leadership in heavy manufacturing, with at least 5 years specifically in production management.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics), Microsoft 365, and project management tools.
• Soft Skills: Exceptional problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and communication skills necessary to bridge the gap between executive goals and shop floor execution.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of heavy industrial manufacturing processes and basic maintenance requirements.

Working Conditions

• Industrial Environment: Exposure to noise, vibration, and temperature fluctuations typical of a heavy manufacturing setting.
• On-Site Presence: Not a remote role—Production Managers are expected to be physically present to oversee operations, troubleshoot issues, and engage with teams.
• Safety Gear: Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, steel-toed boots, and hearing protection is often required when on the production floor.
• Fast Paced & Dynamic: The role involves frequent movement between departments, quick decision making, and hands-on problem-solving.
• Standard Schedule: Full-time, Monday through Friday, around 45–55 hours per week.
• Extended Hours: May include early mornings, evenings, or weekends during peak production periods, equipment outages, or major project rollouts.

Physical Requirements

• Mobility: Ability to walk long distances across the plant floor, climb stairs or ladders, and occasionally access elevated platforms or confined spaces.
• Standing & Walking: Extended periods of standing or walking during plant inspections or production oversight.
• Lifting: Occasionally lift or move items up to 25–50 pounds, such as parts, tools, or documents.
• Manual Dexterity: Use of hands for tasks like operating a computer, writing reports, or handling small components during inspections.
• Visual & Auditory Acuity: Clear vision and hearing to monitor equipment, read gauges, and communicate effectively in a noisy environment.
• Environmental Tolerance: Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment that may include noise, heat, dust, or exposure to machinery.