Operations Manager - Lean, EHS Leader (Relocation Offered)

FPC National; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

FPC National is seeking an Operations Manager to lead site manufacturing operations in Chicago. You will partner with the Plant Manager to drive an EHS-focused strategy, seek continuous improvement through Lean methods, and coach a team of supervisors and floor staff to deliver safe, high-quality outputs.

The role requires 5+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership, a relevant degree, and strong ERP/analytical skills. Relocation is available and a bonus is negotiable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business Management or a closely related degree required.
• MS and/or MBA preferred but not required.
• Minimum of 5+ years of progressive manufacturing operations leadership experience with a demonstrated record of improving safety, quality, productivity, and operational performance.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or formal continuous improvement training with hands-on experience with DMAIC, FMEA, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, OEE, Kaizen or similar continuous improvement techniques a major plus.
• Demonstrated success in coaching, mentoring, and developing leaders and production teams.
• Experience using ERP systems along with strong analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Partner directly with the Plant Manager and site leadership to develop and execute a best-in-class EHS strategy aligned with business and operational objectives.
• Champion a safety-first culture by ensuring compliance with all environmental, health, and safety (EHS) policies, regulations, and company standards.
• Drive operational excellence through the implementation and sustainment of Lean manufacturing principles, including 5S and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead, coach, and develop shift managers, technical experts, and production personnel to build an engaged, accountable, and high-performing workforce.
• Develop and execute the production strategy in alignment with site objectives and overall business priorities.
• Monitor key performance indicators and leverage management systems to improve safety, quality, productivity, delivery, and overall operational performance.
• Manage operating and capital budgets while identifying opportunities to reduce costs, improve efficiencies, and optimize manufacturing processes.
• Partner closely with Supply Chain, Commercial, R&D, Finance, Human Resources, and other cross-functional teams to achieve business objectives and drive operational success.
• Ensure consistent production of high-quality products that meet customer specifications, regulatory requirements, and service expectations.

Skills

Leadership

Coaching

Continuous improvement

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business Management or related

MS/MBA preferred

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

FPC National is seeking an Operations Manager to lead site manufacturing operations in Chicago. You will partner with the Plant Manager to drive an EHS-focused strategy, seek continuous improvement through Lean methods, and coach a team of supervisors and floor staff to deliver safe, high-quality outputs.

The role requires 5+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership, a relevant degree, and strong ERP/analytical skills. Relocation is available and a bonus is negotiable.