Plant Operations Leader: Lean & Continuous Improvement

Essenti Talent; Bloomington (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Essenti Talent is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, ideally automotive supplier. The role demands hands-on leadership to drive continuous improvement, ensure on-time delivery, and achieve cost targets.

Responsibilities include leading production teams, implementing Lean/5S, monitoring KPIs, and guiding root-cause analysis and corrective actions. A Bachelor's degree and proven leadership in manufacturing are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred in manufacturing or engineering.
• Proven experience managing complex manufacturing operations; automotive supplier background is a plus.
• Experience supporting new program launches and ramp-ups.
• Strong knowledge of Lean practices, continuous improvement, and problem solving.

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

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's degree in manufacturing or engineering

Tools

8D problem solving

Job description

Essenti Talent is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, ideally automotive supplier. The role demands hands-on leadership to drive continuous improvement, ensure on-time delivery, and achieve cost targets.

Responsibilities include leading production teams, implementing Lean/5S, monitoring KPIs, and guiding root-cause analysis and corrective actions. A Bachelor's degree and proven leadership in manufacturing are preferred.