Operations Manager - Swenson

Aebi Schmidt North America; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401K with Company Match

Life & Disability Insurance

Flexible Spending Account

Paid Time Off (PTO) Program

Paid Holidays

Reimbursement for Select Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Job summary

Aebi Schmidt North America is seeking an experienced Operations Manager for their manufacturing facility in Rockford, IL. The ideal candidate will lead and coordinate all manufacturing operations, ensuring products are produced safely and efficiently while meeting quality standards.

Responsibilities include setting production standards, managing staff training, and implementing safety measures in compliance with OSHA. The role requires strong leadership, analytical skills, and a proven track record in continuous improvement. Aebi Schmidt offers benefits such as 401K, life insurance, and paid time off.

Qualifications

• 5 years or more experience in manufacturing or operations leadership roles.
• Experience managing industrial facilities in accordance with safety standards.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and performance evaluation abilities.

Responsibilities

• Sets production standards and flow of product as needed to meet annual operating targets.
• Acts as Project Champion for continuous improvement projects.
• Manage all aspects related to safety in accordance with OSHA.

Skills

Knowledge of manufacturing processes

Lean Manufacturing principles

Knowledge of quality control

Strong leadership skills

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Customer-focused with service quality understanding

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

At Swenson Spreader, LLC, an Aebi Schmidt brand located in Lindenwood, IL, just 15 minutes south of Rockford, IL, we pride ourselves on innovation, collaboration, and a dedication to excellence. As part of the Aebi Schmidt Group, we are committed to delivering superior solutions to our customers while also providing rewarding career opportunities.

Position

Swenson Spreader, LLC is seeking an experienced and results‑driven Operations Manager to lead and coordinate manufacturing operations, production staff, and operational resources to ensure products are manufactured safely, efficiently, and in alignment with quality and productivity goals. This role serves as a key leader and will act as a change agent, championing initiatives that improve safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance across the facility.

Responsibilities

• Sets production standards and flow of product as needed to meet annual operating targets.
• Communicates consistently with all business partners, ensuring clear understanding of expectations, progress, and outcomes.
• In partnership with HR, leads training of First Line Supervisors to conduct interviews, hire, train, and discharge production employees, as well as conduct performance reviews setting standards and goals for each employee.
• Acts as Project Champion for continuous improvement projects, etc., leading to quantifiable improvements in safety, quality, productivity, and/or cost.
• Manage all aspects related to safety in accordance with OSHA. This includes managing the Safety Coordinator and implementing policies, procedures, and training.
• Partners with Maintenance on facility and equipment needs, usage, maintenance, modification, and PM schedules.
• Partners closely with Facilities Manager to understand and report all EPA requirements and licenses according to state and federal standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.
• 5 years or more experience in manufacturing or operations leadership roles.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality control, production methods, and cost management.
• Demonstrated application of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement practices.
• Experience with ERP implementation and systems.
• Experience managing industrial facilities in accordance with safety standards.
• Strong leadership skills, including strategic planning, resource allocation, and team coordination.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and performance evaluation abilities.
• Customer‑focused with an understanding of service quality and satisfaction standards.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

The role involves exposure to fumes, heat, mechanical parts, and other industrial conditions. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided.

Benefits

• 401K with Company Match
• Life & Disability Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Paid Time Off (PTO) Program
• Paid Holidays
• Reimbursement for Select Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Aebi Schmidt is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.