Production Manager - Grand Rapids Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 78,000 - 118,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is seeking experienced Production Managers in Grand Rapids, MI, connecting them with manufacturing firms across West Michigan. This opportunity emphasizes long-term fit, leadership, and continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment.

Ideal candidates bring 5+ years in manufacturing, a strong background in lean principles, and a track record of building high-performance teams while upholding safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 5+ years in manufacturing with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Experience with lean principles and continuous improvement (Six Sigma, Kaizen).
• Strong knowledge of production planning, scheduling, and inventory control (MRP/ERP).
• Proven ability to lead production teams focused on safety, quality and efficiency.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production operations to ensure efficiency and quality.
• Develop and implement production schedules to meet delivery targets.
• Manage and mentor production staff, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Monitor production costs and implement cost-reduction strategies.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.
• Optimize production processes for continuous improvement and waste reduction.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure seamless workflow and product delivery.

Skills

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Problem solving

Communication

Analytical thinking

Continuous improvement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Manufacturing/Business Administration

Tools

MRP/ERP systems

ERP (SAP/Oracle)

Job description

Production Manager | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $78,000 - $118,000 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 Grand Rapids seeking Production Managers.

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 are collaborating with multiple companies in Grand Rapids seeking experienced Production Managers. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production operations to ensure efficiency and quality.


• Develop and implement production schedules to meet delivery targets.


• Manage and mentor production staff, fostering a high-performance culture.


• Monitor production costs and implement strategies for cost reduction.


• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.


• Optimize production processes for continuous improvement and waste reduction.


• Collaborate with other departments to ensure seamless workflow and product delivery.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business Administration, or a related field.


• 5+ years of progressive experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.


• Proven experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen).


• Strong understanding of production planning, scheduling, and inventory control systems (e.g., MRP/ERP).


• Demonstrated ability to manage and develop production teams, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and efficiency.


• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.

Bonus Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification


• Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems like SAP or Oracle


• Demonstrated ability to implement and utilize data-driven decision-making tools


• Proficiency in a second language, particularly Spanish

Job Titles That Should Apply

Production Manager, Operations Manager, Manufacturing Manager, Plant Manager, Production Supervisor, Production Lead, Production Coordinator, Production Director, Head of Production, Factory Manager

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.