Production Lead - Kalamazoo Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Kalamazoo, MI partners with manufacturers to connect skilled Production Leads with active opportunities. Join our network to access roles that emphasize safety, efficiency, and strong team leadership.

As a Production Lead in the Kalamazoo region, you will oversee daily production, mentor operators, enforce quality standards, and drive continuous improvement while collaborating with cross-functional teams. This is a full-time on-site role with competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing production, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated ability to improve production efficiency and meet targets.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, safety protocols, and quality standards.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop a production team.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production activities to ensure efficiency and quality.
• Lead and mentor a team of production operators, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Implement and enforce safety protocols and quality control standards.
• Monitor production metrics, identify areas for improvement, and implement solutions.
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure seamless production flow.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and production issues.
• Train new production staff on processes, procedures, and safety.
• Optimize resource allocation, including labor and materials, to meet production targets.

Skills

Leadership

Manufacturing knowledge

Problem solving

Communication skills

Tools

ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle)

Job description

Production Lead | Kalamazoo, MI

Salary Range: $55,000 - $82,000 depending on experience

Are you ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity in {{role_field}}? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to building meaningful connections in manufacturing. We partner with leading companies in Kalamazoo seeking Production Leads.

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 collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Kalamazoo region seeking Production Leads. These employers partner with us because they want real insight into candidates—not just resumes. By joining our network, you gain access to roles worth considering.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production activities to ensure efficiency and quality.
• Lead and mentor a team of production operators, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Implement and enforce safety protocols and quality control standards.
• Monitor production metrics, identify areas for improvement, and implement solutions.
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure seamless production flow.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and production issues.
• Train new production staff on processes, procedures, and safety.
• Optimize resource allocation, including labor and materials, to meet production targets.

Recommended Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing production, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated ability to improve production efficiency and meet targets.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, safety protocols, and quality standards.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop a production team.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen)
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
• Certification in Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt)
• Ability to train and mentor production team members
• Experience with preventative maintenance programs

Job Titles That Should Apply

Production Supervisor, Manufacturing Lead, Team Lead - Production, Production Coordinator, Production Foreman, Shift Lead - Manufacturing, Operations Lead, Assembly Lead, Production Group Leader, Fabrication Lead

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.

The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.