Operations Manager

Dekko; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

8% retirement plan (fully funded)

Job summary

Dekko is seeking an Operations Manager to strategically lead and optimize day‑to‑day manufacturing performance for a key division. This role drives efficiency, productivity, quality, and continuous improvement while building a strong, accountable team that meets business objectives.

You will manage process layouts, manufacturing launches, and cross‑functional collaboration to ensure manufacturability and cost effectiveness across molding, stamping, extruding, coating, and wire processes.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering, with 10+ years of related experience.
• Lean/Six Sigma training with hands-on project experience.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings and specifications.
• Knowledge of molding, stamping, extruding, coating and wire manufacturing.
• Strong communication skills and collaboration with vendors, customers and teammates.

Responsibilities

• Lead detailed process layouts and equipment layout optimization.
• Coordinate manufacturing launches for new/revised products and training.
• Collaborate with management, engineering and staff on capabilities and schedules.
• Partner with sales and product development on design for manufacturability.
• Oversee tools/machinery selection, sourcing, and cost justification.
• Apply statistical methods for cost reduction and quality improvement.
• Lead lean manufacturing and continuous improvement programs.
• Own Tear-down (extended) maintenance plans and master production schedule.

Skills

Lean/Six Sigma training

Reading drawings & specs

Manufacturing processes know-how

Analytical problem solving

Interpersonal communication

Project management

High-performance team experience

Data-driven decision making

Safety culture & compliance

Microsoft Office proficiency

Education

B.S. degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

CNC programming

Tooling design knowledge

Job description

The Operations Manager is a strategic leader that leads and optimizes day-to-day operational performance for a critical division within Group Dekko. This role owns the execution of operational strategy — driving efficiency, productivity, quality, and continuous improvement — while building a strong, accountable team that consistently meets business objectives.

What You'll Do

• Manage preparation and maintenance of detailed layouts of processes and related equipment.
• Manage the coordination of the manufacturing launch of new/revised products including establishing goals, training team members and evaluating results.
• Confer with management, engineering and other staff regarding manufacturing capabilities, production schedules, and other considerations to facilitate production processes.
• Confer with sales and product development concerning product design and tooling to ensure efficient production methods and quality results. Be a leader in design for manufacturability.
• Manage the design, development and test and/or source and cost-justify various tools, machinery and equipment for recommended manufacturing methods and processes. Confer with vendors to determine product specifications and arrange for purchase of machinery and equipment according to specifications and quality standards.
• Apply statistical methods and perform product/process analysis for cost reduction, quality improvement, and improved efficiency.
• Manage the company’s lean manufacturing and continuous improvement programs.
• Process ownership for the following item: Tear - down (extended) Maintenance Plans - Core: Master Production Schedule.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What You'll Need

• B.S. degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering and minimum 10 years related experience.
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma training with hands‑on project experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings and specifications.
• Knowledge of various manufacturing processes including molding, stamping, extruding, coating and wire manufacturing.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to work with vendors, customers and employees.
• Experience working with high-performance teams.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex data into actionable recommendations.
• Quality orientation and high attention to detail.
• Project Management: ability to organize and manage multiple products through manufacturing process.
• Ability to maintain safe work environment.

Nice to Have (Not Required)

• Certifications for Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma.
• Machine tooling design for molding, stamping and extruding.
• CNC machine programming.

Why You'll Love It Here

At Dekko, you'll be part of more than just a company — you'll join a team of passionate people who truly care about what they do and who they work with. We offer:

• Great People & Culture — A supportive, values‑driven environment where teamwork and integrity come first.
• Competitive Pay & Benefits — Including comprehensive healthcare, dental, vision, and an 8% fully funded retirement plan.
• Growth Opportunities — We invest in your development with training, mentorship, and the chance to take on new challenges.
• Work That Matters — Contribute to innovative products that make a difference in how people live and work.
• Stability with Flexibility — A growing company with a strong foundation that understands the importance of work‑life balance.

Here, you'll be supported, challenged, and appreciated — and you'll love being part of the Dekko team.

Dekko is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.