Plant Operations Leader - Lean & CI

Key People; Bloomington (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Key People in Bloomington, IL is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, focusing on safety, quality, on-time delivery, and cost management. This role requires a hands-on leader who can drive continuous improvement and sustainable results in a fast-paced setting.

The candidate will lead production teams, support new program launches and ramp-ups, and coordinate with senior management to improve productivity and profitability

Qualifications

• Must have experience managing complex manufacturing operations, automotive supplier experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and problem-solving methodologies.
• Experience with financial controls, budgeting, labor management, and operational KPIs.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, develop talent, and drive measurable results.
• Experience supporting new program launches and production ramp-ups.

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

Lean Manufacturing

Continuous Improvement

Leadership

Operational Excellence

Problem-solving

Communication

Budgeting & KPIs

New Program Launches

Education

Bachelor's degree (preferred) or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience

Job description

Key People in Bloomington, IL is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, focusing on safety, quality, on-time delivery, and cost management. This role requires a hands-on leader who can drive continuous improvement and sustainable results in a fast-paced setting.

The candidate will lead production teams, support new program launches and ramp-ups, and coordinate with senior management to improve productivity and profitability