Area Leader/Production Manager

The Vollrath Company; Sheboygan (WI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

The Vollrath Company is seeking an Area Leader to oversee the Fabrication area operations, ensuring alignment with business goals and Vollrath principles. You will manage daily production, lead a team of Group Leaders, and drive continuous improvement, safety, and quality across the site.

Key responsibilities include resource planning, KPI monitoring, and implementing Kaizen events to enhance efficiency. Strong leadership and a deep commitment to safety and quality are essential for success in

Qualifications

• 7–10 years in a manufacturing environment with blended production, maintenance, planning, or quality experience
• 5–7 years directly managing people
• Bachelor’s degree required
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proven ability to lead and motivate teams
• Lean manufacturing principles and tools knowledge
• Experience in project management and process improvement
• Commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the Fabrication area to meet production targets.
• Allocate resources to maximize efficiency and productivity.
• Develop and implement area-specific improvement plans.
• Monitor KPIs and identify areas for improvement.
• Lead and mentor a team of Group Leaders; provide coaching.
• Foster collaboration across teams and conduct regular performance reviews.
• Drive Kaizen events and lean initiatives within the area.
• Ensure safety and quality standards are met and issues resolved.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Lean manufacturing

Project management

Process improvement

Safety and quality focus

Education

Bachelor's Degree in related field

Job description

The Area Leader lead and oversee the operations of the Fabrication area within the organization, ensuring that all activities are aligned with the overall business goals and conducted in accordance with the Vollrath principles.

Essential Job Responsibilities

Area Management

• Oversee the daily operations of the area, ensuring that all production/service targets are met.
• Manage and allocate resources effectively to maximize efficiency and productivity.
• Develop and implement area-specific improvement plans.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor a team of Group Leaders, providing guidance, support, and coaching.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive environment among all teams within the area.
• Conduct regular meetings with Group Leaders to review performance, discuss challenges, and share best practices.
• Develop and implement succession plans for key positions.

Continuous Improvement

• Champion a culture of continuous improvement throughout the area.
• Lead and participate in Kaizen events and other improvement activities.
• Drive the implementation of lean manufacturing principles and tools.
• Ensure that all employees are actively engaged in continuous improvement activities.

Safety And Quality

• Ensure that all safety and quality standards are met.
• Investigate and resolve safety and quality issues promptly and effectively.
• Promote a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.

Communication

• Effectively communicate with all levels of the organization, including senior management, peers, and subordinates.
• Represent the area at meetings and other forums.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILTIES/DIRECT REPORTS

Yes

TRAVEL

NA

Qualifications

• Seven to ten (7 - 10) years of experience in a manufacturing environment with a blended experience base in production, maintenance, planning, or quality assignments.
• Five to seven (5 – 7) years of experience directly managing people.
• Bachelors Degree in related field.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proven ability to lead and motivate teams
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and tools
• Experience in project management and process improvement
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

VOLLRATH'S CORE VALUES

• Take Ownership: Our intention is to match our actions with our words, building trust with others. We are united in taking responsibility for the success of Vollrath as a whole.
• Empower Action: Our intention is to create a workplace where every member can thrive in their growth and contributions with excitement, confidence, and psychological safety. We support each team member with resources and tools to strengthen collaboration and performance.
• Treat All People With Respect: Our intention is to recognize the diverse experiences, styles, and backgrounds of others, treating everyone with dignity. We aim to foster an inclusive culture where all team members can be their authentic selves and feel safe in voicing their perspectives.
• Life Beyond Work: Our intention is to care for the well-being of every individual we engage with, understanding them as a whole person. We strive to keep people mentally and physically safe, sending each person home in a condition to build a fulfilling life beyond work. We encourage balance, allowing our colleagues to pursue their passions.
• Commitment to Those Who Count on Us: Our intention is to drive innovation and practical solutions through understanding the needs of our coworkers, customers, owners, and communities. We are dedicated to proactively addressing those needs and delivering results.