Operations Manager: Complex Manufacturing Leader

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

Job summary

Top Dog Recruiting is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee daily plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, preferably automotive supplier experience. The role emphasizes hands-on leadership to deliver safe operations, on-time delivery, and cost performance.

You will lead production teams, drive Lean initiatives, monitor KPIs, and develop Supervisors and Technicians. Strong problem solving, knowledge of automotive quality systems, and continuous improvement are essential for

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.

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.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Leadership

Continuous Improvement

Problem-Solving

Team Leadership

Budgeting / Financial Controls

Operational KPIs

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience

Job description

Top Dog Recruiting is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee daily plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, preferably automotive supplier experience. The role emphasizes hands-on leadership to deliver safe operations, on-time delivery, and cost performance.

You will lead production teams, drive Lean initiatives, monitor KPIs, and develop Supervisors and Technicians. Strong problem solving, knowledge of automotive quality systems, and continuous improvement are essential for