Operations Manager - Lean & Continuous Improvement

Top Echelon Software, LLC; Bloomington (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Top Echelon Software, LLC is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day plant operations in a complex manufacturing setting, preferably automotive supplier. The role requires hands-on leadership to drive continuous improvement and ensure on-time delivery, quality, safety, and cost targets.

You will lead Production Supervisors and technicians, manage budgets and KPIs, and support new program launches and ramp-ups in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience.
• 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 issues.
• Support new program launches, production readiness, and 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

5S

Problem solving

Leadership

Budgeting

Labor management

Operational KPIs

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience

Job description

Top Echelon Software, LLC is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day plant operations in a complex manufacturing setting, preferably automotive supplier. The role requires hands-on leadership to drive continuous improvement and ensure on-time delivery, quality, safety, and cost targets.

You will lead Production Supervisors and technicians, manage budgets and KPIs, and support new program launches and ramp-ups in a fast-paced environment.