Industrial Ops Leader: Lean & Continuous Improvement

Generac Power Systems; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401(k)

Onsite gym

Walking trails

Café

Free parking

Employee activities

Volunteer Time Off

Fun Days

Job summary

Generac Power Systems in Rockford, IL seeks a Director of Operations to lead a multi-shift manufacturing plant and materials campus, driving safety, quality, delivery, and cost while implementing the Generac Manufacturing System (GMS) grounded in lean principles.

The role focuses on operational leadership, talent development, and strategic execution; strong problem-solving, standard work, and cross-functional collaboration are essential for sustained performance and growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in engineering, business, supply chain, or related field.
• 3+ years applying lean principles with demonstrated year-over-year improvement.
• 5+ years of leadership experience managing teams in a manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations across a multi-shift manufacturing facility and warehouse campus.
• Drive lean manufacturing principles including pull systems, visual factory, and daily problem solving.
• Deploy Generac Manufacturing System (GMS) using PDCA and MDI to achieve KPI targets in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and cash.
• Establish standardized work and processes to ensure stability, productivity, and consistent execution.
• Develop a high‑performing culture focused on accountability and continuous improvement.
• Lead training, cross-training, and succession planning to support a resilient workforce.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Leadership

Operations management

GMS implementation

SAP / MES

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's degree

Equivalent experience

Tools

MES/MOM

SAP

PFEP

Job description

Generac Power Systems in Rockford, IL seeks a Director of Operations to lead a multi-shift manufacturing plant and materials campus, driving safety, quality, delivery, and cost while implementing the Generac Manufacturing System (GMS) grounded in lean principles.

The role focuses on operational leadership, talent development, and strategic execution; strong problem-solving, standard work, and cross-functional collaboration are essential for sustained performance and growth.