Operations Manager

KOB Solutions, Inc.; Bloomington (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

KOB Solutions, Inc. is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee daily plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, preferably automotive supplier related. The role requires hands-on leadership to achieve safe, on-time production and cost targets while driving continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate will manage production teams, implement Lean initiatives, and collaborate with senior management to deliver quality products and profitable operations at the Bloomington site.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading complex manufacturing operations.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement.
• Experience with problem solving and data-driven decision making.
• Ability to develop talent and lead teams to measurable results.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily plant operations to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Lead production teams to satisfy customer schedules and manufacturing requirements.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor labor efficiency, machine utilization, and operating costs.
• Develop Production Supervisors and technicians.
• 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 productivity.
• Communicate performance and results to senior management.
• Foster employee engagement and culture of operational excellence.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Lean manufacturing

Cost reduction

Team development

Operational excellence

Education

Bachelor's degree

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, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, develop talent, and drive measurable operational results.