Production Manager

Huhtamaki, Inc.; Hammond (IN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Huhtamaki, Inc. is seeking a qualified individual to oversee operations, ensuring production safety and environmental compliance. This role requires a strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and effective communication skills to manage cross-departmental relationships.

Candidates should hold a 4-year degree in a related field and possess 7-10 years of experience in a manufacturing setting. Responsibilities include implementing continuous improvement processes and managing production reports to achieve safety, quality, and efficiency goals.

Qualifications

• Understanding of SPC and lean manufacturing principles is essential.
• Strong communication skills are required for effective teamwork.
• Up to 10% travel may be required for this position.

Responsibilities

• Monitor workplace safety and environmental practices.
• Manage relationships with various departments to meet project deliverables.
• Implement continuous improvement programs and processes.

Skills

Understanding of SPC and lean manufacturing principles

Team problem solving and facilitation skills

Computer literacy: Excel and MS Office

Strong interpersonal skills

Detail oriented and organized

Ability to manage multiple priorities

Education

4-year degree in operations management, business management, or engineering

Tools

MS Project

BPCS or AS400 manufacturing software

Job description

Responsibilities

• Monitor the safety and environmental practices of the workplace to provide a safe work environment for all employees.
• Manage relationships with quality, planning, warehouse, engineering, and maintenance to ensure timely satisfaction of customer requirements and project deliverables, including new equipment installations or upgrades.
• Implement production of all products, integrating engineering projects into the regular operating process.
• Work with the Controller to develop operating budgets.
• Monitor all production reports to ensure achievement of financial, safety, quality, and on‑time delivery goals.
• Coordinate and monitor plans for reductions in cost and product lead times for existing and new products.
• Review and analyze reports to determine causes of non‑conformity and develop procedures to improve.
• Revise production schedules and priorities to accommodate unforeseen events relating to raw materials, equipment, sales demand, personnel, weather, etc.
• Act as a change agent for technological advances, identifying opportunities for site improvements.
• Implement continuous improvement process programs and projects.
• Monitor production employees regarding staffing levels, skill levels, and training requirements.
• Ensure established company policies and procedures are followed relative to safety, quality, and employee relations practices.
• Oversee the training and development of department personnel.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications (Required)

• Understanding of SPC and lean manufacturing principles.
• Team problem solving and facilitation skills.
• Computer literacy: Excel and MS Office.
• Strong interpersonal skills: ability to communicate orally and in writing, present information one‑on‑one and in group settings at all organizational levels, and remain diplomatic under all circumstances.
• Detail oriented, organized, self‑starter, flexible, and change agent.
• Ability to work concurrently on multiple priorities and projects.
• Up to 10% travel required.

Preferred Qualifications

• 4‑year degree, preferably in operations management, business management, or engineering.
• 7–10 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Discrete manufacturing experience: paper, paperboard, or molded‑fiber food packaging.
• Experience with MS Project or other project management software.
• Knowledge of BPCS or AS400 manufacturing software systems.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Office work area is climate‑controlled; requires time in the manufacturing area (< 40% of time) that is hot/cold, dusty, and noisy.
• While in the manufacturing area, required PPE must be worn.
• Requires full speech, vision, and hearing capabilities, including peripheral vision and color discrimination.
• Ability to lift light‑weight material up to 25 pounds with physical effort.
• Ability to sit, stand, and/or walk up to 8 hours per day.
• Standard work schedule for this type of role; some travel may be required.