Group Leader/Operations Supervisor

Vollrath Company; Kiel (WI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Opportunities for personal growth

Commitment to a healthy work-life balance

Inclusive workplace culture

Job summary

A leading manufacturing firm located in Kiel is seeking a Group Leader to manage a team of 10-25 members. This role involves fostering a collaborative environment while ensuring safety and efficiency in operations. The ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of management experience, a Bachelor’s degree, and strong problem-solving skills. The position emphasizes continuous improvement and effective communication, making it vital for the candidate to engage and empower their team effectively.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of experience directly managing people.
• Strong commitment to continuous improvement.
• Ability to work independently and with a team.

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate a team of 10-25 hourly members.
• Ensure safety and efficiency in team activities.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Teamwork

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

ERP systems

Job description

Kiel
502 State Road 67
Kiel, WI 53042, USA

The Group Leader will lead a high-performing team that consistently delivers high-quality products while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and employee engagement.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILIES

• Contributes to a culture that ensures the safety of all team members above all else.
• Lead and motivate a team of 10-25 hourly team members, providing clear direction, support, and coaching.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment where open communication and mutual respect are valued.
• Conduct regular team meetings to discuss progress, address challenges, and celebrate successes.
• Empower team members to make decisions and take ownership of their work.
• Identify and develop the skills and talents of team members.

Operational Excellence

• Ensure that all team activities are conducted safely, efficiently, and effectively.
• Monitor and analyze team performance data to identify areas for improvement.
• Implement and sustain lean manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, visual management, standardized work) to eliminate waste and improve efficiency.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through the use of tools such as Kaizen events, root cause analysis, and PDCA cycles.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and environmental regulations.

Customer Focus

• Understand and meet the needs and expectations of both internal and external customers.
• Proactively identify and address issues.

Problem Solving

• Utilize problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys) to effectively address challenges and prevent recurrence.
• Encourage team members to actively participate in problem-solving activities.

Communication

• Effectively communicate with team members, peers, supervisors, and other stakeholders.
• Clearly and concisely document all relevant information.

Other duties as assigned

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILTIES/DIRECT REPORTS

Yes

TRAVEL

Less than 10%

QUALIFICATIONS

• One to three (1 – 3) years of experience directly managing people.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Operations Management or related field.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong commitment to continuous improvement
• Passion for developing others
• Strong work ethic and a positive attitude
• Proficiency in relevant software applications (e.g., Microsoft Office, ERP systems)

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.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.