Operations Manager - Portage Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Portage (MI); On-site; USD 105,000 - 152,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network partners with Portage-based manufacturers to identify an experienced Operations Manager who will oversee daily production, drive efficiency, and align operations with strategic goals in a Portage, MI setting. This on-site role emphasizes Lean principles, ERP proficiency, and strong leadership to mentor supervisors and ensure safety and quality across production lines.

The successful candidate will bring 5+ years of manufacturing ops experience, a solid track record of

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 improving production efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing quality.
• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing software.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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.
• Monitor KPIs and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate with supply chain and logistics to ensure timely material flow and product delivery.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focusing on lean manufacturing principles and waste reduction.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and quality standards.

Skills

Operations management

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Manufacturing software

Job description

Operations Manager | Portage, MI

Salary Range: $105,000 - $152,000 depending on experience

Are you a seasoned 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 community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Portage seeking Operations Managers to lead and enhance their operations.

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 partner with manufacturers across Portage seeking Operations Managers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

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.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate with supply chain and logistics to ensure timely material flow and product delivery.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focusing on lean manufacturing principles and waste reduction.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and quality standards.

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 improving production efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing quality.
• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and other manufacturing software.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Bonus Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification
• Experience with ERP system implementation or optimization
• Demonstrated success in cross-functional team leadership
• Familiarity with advanced manufacturing technologies (e.g., automation, robotics)

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

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.