Operations Manager

birmsearchgroup; Brighton (MI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Comprehensive benefits package

Paid time off

Job summary

birmsearchgroup in Brighton, Michigan is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead daily operations at its e-coat facility. This role is critical for ensuring operational excellence and efficiency in a high-volume manufacturing environment specializing in protective coatings.

The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of experience in manufacturing leadership, particularly within coatings or automotive finishing operations, strong knowledge of e-coat processes, and a proven track record in Lean methodologies.

A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package are offered, along with opportunities for professional development and career growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related technical field.
• 5+ years of leadership experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong working knowledge of e-coat chemistry and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of e-coat production operations.
• Lead and develop a team to achieve production targets.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Lean/Six Sigma methodologies

Communication skills

E-coat chemistry knowledge

Data-driven decision making

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Job Posting: Operations Manager – E-Coat Facility

Location: Brighton, Michigan
Department: Plant Operations
Pay: $85,000 - $100,000
Reports To: President

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Operations Manager to lead daily operations at our e-coat (electrophoretic coating) facility. This critical leadership role is responsible for driving operational excellence, safety quality, and efficiency in a high-volume manufacturing environment focused on premium, protective coatings for metal components.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee all aspects of e-coat production operations, including pretreatment, coating application, curing, and post-processing.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of production supervisors, technicians, and support staff to achieve safety, quality, and production targets.
• Optimize production schedules, throughput, and resource utilization while maintaining strict quality standards.
• Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and improve process efficiency.
• Ensure full compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations (EPA, OSHA, etc.), particularly those related to chemical handling, wastewater treatment, and hazardous materials in e-coat processes.
• Monitor and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) including First-Time Quality (FTQ), On-Time Delivery (OTD), scrap rates, uptime, and cost per unit.
• Troubleshoot process issues related to bath chemistry, voltage, temperature, coating thickness, and line performance.
• Collaborate with Maintenance, Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to minimize downtime and resolve technical challenges.
• Manage operating budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for capital improvements or process automation.
• Champion a strong safety culture and ensure all team members adhere to proper PPE and safe operating procedures.

Qualifications & Experience Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related technical field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 3 years in coatings, e-coat, powder coating, or automotive finishing operations.
• Strong working knowledge of e-coat chemistry, process parameters, equipment (rectifiers, tanks, UF systems, ovens), and troubleshooting.
• Proven track record in Lean/Six Sigma methodologies and data-driven decision making.
• Strong communication skills.
• Knowledge of ERP systems.

What We Offer:

• Competitive base salary + performance bonus.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.