Operations Manager - Kalamazoo Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 108,000 - 156,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network seeks an Operations Manager to lead daily manufacturing operations in Kalamazoo, MI, ensuring efficiency, safety, and on-time production. Ideal candidates have 5+ years in manufacturing operations, a related Bachelor's degree, proven lean/process-improvement track record, strong leadership, ERP experience, and excellent communication.

You will mentor supervisors, develop policies, monitor KPIs, and collaborate with supply chain to optimize delivery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in operations management within a manufacturing environment
• Proven track record of implementing process improvements and driving efficiency
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in ERP systems and production planning software

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production activities to ensure efficiency and adherence to schedules.
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to optimize productivity and quality.
• Manage and mentor a team of production supervisors and line workers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to achieve operational targets.
• Collaborate with supply chain and logistics to ensure timely delivery of materials and finished goods.
• Drive lean manufacturing initiatives and process improvements to reduce waste and enhance operational effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and quality standards within the manufacturing environment.

Skills

Operations management

Lean manufacturing

ERP systems

Production planning

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or Engineering

Tools

Production planning software

Job description

Operations Manager | Kalamazoo, MI

Salary Range: $108,000 - $156,000 depending on experience

Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for optimizing business operations and driving organizational success? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We partner with leading manufacturing companies in Kalamazoo, seeking experienced Operations Managers to strengthen their teams.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Kalamazoo region seeking Operations Managers. These employers partner with us because they want real insight into candidates - just resumes. By joining our network, you gain access to roles worth considering.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production activities to ensure efficiency and adherence to schedules.
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to optimize productivity and quality.
• Manage and mentor a team of production supervisors and line workers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to achieve operational targets.
• Collaborate with supply chain and logistics to ensure timely delivery of materials and finished goods.
• Drive lean manufacturing initiatives and process improvements to reduce waste and enhance operational effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and quality standards within the manufacturing environment.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in operations management within a manufacturing environment
• Proven track record of implementing process improvements and driving efficiency
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in ERP systems and production planning software

Bonus Qualifications

• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification
• Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems implementation
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor cross-functional teams
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau)

Job Titles That Should Apply

Operations Manager, Operations Director, Head of Operations, Business Operations Manager, VP of Operations, Director of Operations, Senior Operations Manager, Regional Operations Manager, Global Operations Manager, Operations Lead

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.