Operations Manager – Manufacturing

3 Step Recruitment, Inc.; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing recruitment company is seeking an Operations Manager in Hamilton, Ontario, to oversee day-to-day operations and drive strategic initiatives. This full-time, on-site role requires 3+ years of supervisory experience in manufacturing and a proven ability to manage a unionized workforce. Responsibilities include ensuring operational efficiency, managing budgets, and maintaining high levels of customer service in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Bonus structure

Qualifications

• 3+ years of supervisory or management experience in a manufacturing, processing, or recycling facility.
• Proven ability to operate in a unionized environment.
• Experience with P&L responsibility, KPI management, and operational improvement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day plant operations including quality control of materials.
• Manage production efficiency by monitoring KPIs and ensuring compliance.
• Collaborate with HR to manage staffing and lead a unionized workforce.

Skills

Supervisory experience

KPI management

Project management

Customer management

Hands-on leadership

Problem-solving

Job description

Overview

Operations Manager - Manufacturing

Location: Hamilton, Ontario

Compensation: Competitive salary plus bonus

Hours: Full-time, on-site, Monday-Friday, single shift (7am-4pm core hours)

About the Company

This Canadian-owned company specializes in processing within the manufacturing sector. Operating one of the only facilities of its kind in the country, the company provides cost-effective and sustainable solutions.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an Operations Manager to lead day-to-day operations while also driving strategic initiatives. This role is ideal for a high-performing operations professional who wants to step into a broader leadership role — one that combines plant management, customer interaction, union relations, and business development.

You will manage production in a smaller, complex facility where no two days are the same, with the opportunity to directly impact operational performance, employee engagement, and customer satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day plant operations, including receiving, processing, and quality control of materials.
• Manage production efficiency by monitoring KPIs, ensuring compliance, and optimizing resource allocation.
• Oversee equipment operation and preventative maintenance, coordinating contractors when needed.
• Collaborate with HR to manage staffing; lead a unionized workforce with fairness and strong communication.
• Work directly with customers managing product streams, adjusting to peaks and valleys in demand, and ensuring high levels of service.
• Maintain financial accountability: manage budgets, control costs, and execute business strategies to grow profitability.
• Be hands-on when required, leading by example on the plant floor.
• Support a culture of safety and compliance with all regulatory guidelines.
• Partner with senior leadership to align plant operations with long-term business objectives.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of supervisory or management experience in a manufacturing, processing, or recycling facility.
• Proven ability to operate in a unionized environment.
• Experience with P&L responsibility, KPI management, and operational improvement.
• Strong project management skills and experience managing contractors / maintenance.
• Hands-on leadership style with excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Adaptable and resourceful, able to pivot between operational oversight, customer management, and business development.