Production Lead - Kentwood Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Kentwood (MI); On-site; USD 54,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is assisting Kentwood-based manufacturers in finding a Production Lead to oversee daily schedules, mentor the team, and drive continuous improvement. This role is on-site in Kentwood, Michigan, with responsibility for safety, quality, and adherence to production targets.

Ideal candidates bring 5+ years in manufacturing production, including 2+ years in leadership, plus proficiency with MES and production management tools.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing production with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a production team to hit targets while maintaining quality.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, lean principles, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production schedules and workflows to meet output targets.
• Train, mentor, and supervise production team members, fostering a positive work environment.
• Monitor product quality and implement corrective actions to ensure adherence to standards.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and coordinate with maintenance for timely repairs.
• Optimize production processes for efficiency, cost reduction, and waste minimization.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and company policies.

Skills

Leadership experience

Lean principles

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

MES proficiency

Tools

MES software

Job description

Production Lead | Kentwood, MI

Salary Range: $54,000 - $81,000 depending on experience

Are you a seasoned professional with a passion for excelling in production lead? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Kentwood seeking Production Leads to lead and enhance their operations.

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 partner with manufacturers across Kentwood seeking Production Leads who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production schedules and workflows to meet output targets.
• Train, mentor, and supervise production team members, fostering a positive work environment.
• Monitor product quality and implement corrective actions to ensure adherence to standards.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and coordinate with maintenance for timely repairs.
• Optimize production processes for efficiency, cost reduction, and waste minimization.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and company policies.

Recommended Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing production, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a production team to achieve targets and maintain quality standards.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, lean principles, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in using manufacturing execution systems (MES) and other production management software.
• Demonstrated ability to ensure workplace safety and adherence to regulatory requirements.

Bonus Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab)
• OSHA 30-hour General Industry certification

Job Titles That Should Apply

Production Supervisor, Manufacturing Lead, Team Lead - Production, Production Coordinator, Operations Lead, Shift Lead - Manufacturing, Production Group Leader, Production Team Leader, Line Supervisor - Manufacturing

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.