Area Leader — Manufacturing Operations & Excellence

Colgate; Hodges (SC); On-site; USD 97,000 - 137,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Paid time off and holidays

401(k) with company matching

Job summary

Colgate-Palmolive in Hodges, SC is seeking an Area Leader in Operations. You will lead frontline teams, drive safety, quality, and efficiency across critical manufacturing areas, and partner with Engineering, Quality and Supply Chain to deliver continuous improvement initiatives.

The role requires 7+ years of manufacturing leadership and a strong background in mechanical, electrical and chemical plant systems. Competitive pay, benefits, and career growth opportunities are offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 7+ years manufacturing experience or Master’s with 5+ years.
• Supervisory experience managing teams in an industrial environment.
• Hands-on knowledge of mechanical, electrical and chemical plant equipment.
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP) and WMS.

Responsibilities

• Lead and Develop High-Performing Teams: Direct daily operations through frontline supervisors and technicians, coaching talent and fostering accountability.
• Drive Operational Excellence: Lead continuous improvement and reliability programs to optimize asset utilization and OEE.
• Champion Safety & Environmental Standards: Ensure compliance with EHS regulations and promote a zero-incident culture.
• Ensure Product Quality & Regulatory Compliance: Oversee GMP adherence and root-cause investigations for non-conformances.
• Manage Operational Budgets & Cost Optimization: Own budgets, labor efficiency, and material utilization to deliver savings.
• Deliver Technology Transfers & Product Launches: Collaborate to commission new equipment and formulations.

Skills

Team leadership

Manufacturing operations

Data-driven decisions

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field

Master’s degree

Tools

SAP

WMS

Google Workspace

Microsoft Office

Job description

Colgate-Palmolive in Hodges, SC is seeking an Area Leader in Operations. You will lead frontline teams, drive safety, quality, and efficiency across critical manufacturing areas, and partner with Engineering, Quality and Supply Chain to deliver continuous improvement initiatives.

The role requires 7+ years of manufacturing leadership and a strong background in mechanical, electrical and chemical plant systems. Competitive pay, benefits, and career growth opportunities are offered.