Plant Operations Leader - Lean Manufacturing & Auto

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

Job summary

SPG in Bloomington, IL is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee all day-to-day plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, preferably automotive supplier-focused. You will drive continuous improvement, ensure on-time delivery, quality, and cost targets, and lead a team through ramp-ups and new program launches.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong lean knowledge, and the ability to manage budgets and KPIs while fostering a culture of operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent leadership experience required.
• Proven experience managing complex manufacturing operations; automotive supplier experience strongly preferred.
• Experience supporting new program launches and production ramp-ups.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and problem-solving methodologies.
• Working knowledge of automotive quality systems and customer requirements.
• Experience with financial controls, budgeting, labor management, and operational KPIs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily plant operations to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Lead production teams to meet customer schedules and manufacturing requirements.
• Drive Lean, 5S and other continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor labor efficiency, machine utilization, and production performance.
• Lead supervisors, team leaders, technicians, and production staff.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards and customer requirements.
• Lead root cause analyses and 8D actions for quality and downtime issues.
• Support new program launches and ramp-up activities.
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve plant profitability.
• Maintain a safe, organized manufacturing environment.
• Communicate performance and initiatives to senior management.
• Promote engagement and accountability for operational excellence.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Continuous Improvement

Problem Solving

Leadership

Team Development

Operational Excellence

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience

Job description

SPG in Bloomington, IL is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee all day-to-day plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, preferably automotive supplier-focused. You will drive continuous improvement, ensure on-time delivery, quality, and cost targets, and lead a team through ramp-ups and new program launches.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong lean knowledge, and the ability to manage budgets and KPIs while fostering a culture of operational excellence.