Operations Manager

Henderson Group Recruiting; Bloomington (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Henderson Group Recruiting seeks an Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, preferably automotive supplier. You will ensure on-time delivery, quality, and cost targets while leading a hands-on team to drive continuous improvement.

The role requires experience with Lean, 5S, and problem solving, plus the ability to lead production supervisors and technicians.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience.
• Proven experience managing complex manufacturing operations; automotive supplier experience preferred.
• Experience supporting new program launches and production ramp-ups.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement.
• Familiarity with automotive quality systems and customer requirements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily plant operations to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost goals.
• Lead production teams to satisfy schedules and manufacturing requirements.
• Drive Lean, 5S, and other continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor labor efficiency, machine utilization, and production performance.
• Develop supervisors and production personnel for performance and engagement.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards and customer requirements.
• Lead root cause analysis and 8D actions for issues.
• Support new program launches and ramp-up activities.
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve profitability.
• Promote a safe, organized, and efficient working environment.
• Report performance and improvements to senior management.
• Foster a culture of operational excellence.

Skills

Leadership

Lean Manufacturing

8D Problem Solving

Operational Excellence

Team Development

Education

Bachelor's degree

Equivalent leadership experience

Job description

*Must have experience in complex manufacturing operations*

Operations Manager

Position Summary

The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all day-to-day plant operations within a complex manufacturing environment, preferably within the automotive supplier industry. This role ensures efficient production of high-quality products, on-time delivery, and achievement of cost and operational targets. Requires a hands-on leader with a proven ability to drive continuous improvement and sustainable results in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Operations Manager Responsibilities

• Oversee daily plant operations to achieve safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Lead production teams and ensure customer schedules and manufacturing requirements are met.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and operational efficiencies.
• Monitor labor efficiency, machine utilization, production performance, and operating costs.
• Lead and develop Production Supervisors, Team Leaders, Technicians, and production personnel.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards, customer-specific requirements, and safety policies.
• Lead root cause analysis and 8D corrective actions to address quality, downtime, and production issues.
• Support new program launches, production readiness, and manufacturing ramp-up activities.
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve productivity, and increase plant profitability.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient manufacturing environment.
• Communicate operational performance, improvement initiatives, and business results to senior management.
• Promote employee engagement, accountability, and a culture of operational excellence.

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience.
• Proven experience managing complex manufacturing operations; automotive supplier experience strongly preferred.
• Experience supporting new program launches and production ramp-ups.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and problem-solving methodologies.
• Working knowledge of automotive quality systems and customer requirements.
• Experience with financial controls, budgeting, labor management, and operational KPIs.
• Strong leadership, communication, organization, and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, develop talent, and drive measurable operational results.