Area Leader/Production Manager

Socket.dev; Sheboygan (WI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Vollrath Company in Sheboygan, WI, seeks an Area Leader to oversee the Fabrication area and align operations with Vollrath goals. You will lead group leaders, drive continuous improvement, and champion lean practices while ensuring safety and quality.

The role requires 7–10 years in manufacturing and 5–7 years in people leadership, plus a Bachelor’s degree. You will report to senior management and advance area performance through KPI analytics and targeted improvements.

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.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the area, ensuring production/service targets are met.
• Manage and allocate resources to maximize efficiency and productivity.
• Develop and implement area-specific improvement plans.
• Monitor and analyze KPIs to track progress and identify areas for improvement.
• Lead and mentor a team of Group Leaders, providing guidance and coaching.
• Foster collaboration across all area teams and conduct regular performance reviews.
• Drive lean manufacturing initiatives and Kaizen events within the area.
• Ensure safety and quality standards are met and issues are resolved promptly.

Skills

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Strategic thinking

Communication

Problem-solving

Team development

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 RESPONSIBILIES

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.

Other duties as assigned

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 ourwords, building trust with others. We are united in takingresponsibility 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 withexcitement, confidence, and psychological safety. We support each team member with resources and tools tostrengthen 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.