Operations Manager - Lean Automotive Plant

Launching Point; Bloomington (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Launching Point is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee daily plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, preferably automotive supplier related. You will drive safety, quality, on-time delivery, and cost targets while leading teams and implementing Lean and 8D processes.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree or equivalent leadership experience, strong Lean knowledge, and proven ability to launch new programs and ramp production.

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

Leadership

Lean Manufacturing

Problem solving

Communication

Operational management

Financial controls

Team development

Quality systems knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience

Job description

Launching Point is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee daily plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, preferably automotive supplier related. You will drive safety, quality, on-time delivery, and cost targets while leading teams and implementing Lean and 8D processes.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree or equivalent leadership experience, strong Lean knowledge, and proven ability to launch new programs and ramp production.