Production Manager

About the role

Reporting to the Senior Operations Manager, the Production Manager is responsible for managing the production operations within the assigned area of manufacturing through high-level process improvements and strategic planning methods surrounding the operational output and processes. This role supports and fulfills the objectives of the plant while ensuring local adherence to global objectives and corporate standards.

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee all production personnel and related activities (e.g., ZF Production System management) to ensure targets for safety, quality, delivery, quantity, and cost are met.
• Establish production targets with the aim of optimizing processes and minimizing bottlenecks and downtime.
• Monitor and evaluate department operating results in comparison to the business plan.
• Plan, select, design, and implement manufacturing methods and processes through continuous improvement and lean manufacturing techniques; monitor and audit processes for compliance and effectiveness.
• Identify internal process issues and collaborate with internal and external teams to develop and implement solutions.
• Ensure corrective actions are documented and implemented for any applicable nonconformance.
• Work with internal groups (e.g., manufacturing, purchasing, engineering, program/launch management, quality) and outside suppliers/contractors to support business development, capacity, and continuity.
• Identify tools, equipment needs, and organizational skill requirements; assess gaps in key skill areas and capacity, and implement strategies to close these gaps to strengthen the organization and overall equipment efficiency (OEE).
• Review personnel performance and provide tools for direct reports to achieve goals, including plant support (e.g., personnel, equipment, training, deviations signoff).
• Confer with senior management, engineering, and quality leadership to resolve manufacturing problems and recommend measures to improve OEE and machine/equipment performance (e.g., replacements, upgrades, software enhancements).
• Lead continuous improvement programs and support team efforts to increase OEE.
• Ensure departmental compliance with IATF-16949, ISO-14001 requirements, ZF corporate policies, and divisional directives; initiate and support the development of new procedures as necessary.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in a technical field.
• 8-10+ years of advanced experience in operations management within the durable manufacturing industry.
• 6+ years of experience encompassing most of the following areas: operations management, supply chain management, maintenance, manufacturing/industrial engineering, and/or business planning.
• 4+ years of project management and/or supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 2+ years of managing/directing others, including delegating/tracking independent work assignments and training programs.
• Proven leadership with strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Expertise in manufacturing operations, plant management, and lean methodologies.
• Deep operational knowledge of machining, assembly, and heat treatment processes.

ZF does not offer visa sponsorship for this role, and candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship by ZF now or in the future.

Benefits

• A supportive, collaborative team environment.
• Annual Incentive Plan.
• Paid vacation and personal time.
• 401k Plan.
• Health care benefits.
• Paid holidays.
• A strong diversity culture with supportive employee groups and community outreach activities.