Production Operations Lead — Team Leadership & Efficiency

Joseph Michaels International; Oskaloosa (IA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Joseph Michaels International in Iowa is seeking a Production Supervisor to lead daily production, coordinate resources, and drive efficiency in a fast-paced manufacturing facility.

You will mentor staff, ensure safety and quality, manage schedules and performance metrics, and collaborate with managers to implement improvements. Strong leadership and communication are essential; foundry experience is a plus.

Qualifications

• Strong leadership and coaching abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Effective problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• Strong organizational, planning, and resource management skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and adapt to changing production demands.
• Experience managing production schedules, staffing needs, and operational resources.
• Commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
• Knowledge of workplace safety practices and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to collaborate with employees at all levels.
• Demonstrated ability to drive process improvements and implement change.
• Strong computer and data-entry skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate daily production and maintenance activities to meet operational goals and customer needs.
• Communicate with general foremen and team members to determine priorities and align resources effectively.
• Create team assignments and communicate expectations to ensure efficient workflow and production output.
• Monitor production schedules, resource availability, and workforce capacity, making adjustments as needed.
• Maintain appropriate levels of non-inventory production and maintenance supplies to support daily operations.
• Track department performance, monitor key metrics, and implement corrective actions when necessary.
• Conduct daily start-up meetings and provide ongoing communication throughout the workday.
• Spend time at work centers and on the production floor to build relationships, answer questions, and support employees.
• Ensure quality standards are maintained throughout all production processes.
• Train and support new employees on safety requirements, equipment operation, and job responsibilities.
• Collaborate with managers, supervisors, and team members to identify improvement opportunities and resolve operational challenges.
• Conduct and document performance reviews and regular performance conversations with team members.
• Coach employees through one-on-one discussions and support their professional development.
• Identify training and development opportunities that improve employee performance and engagement.
• Promote workplace safety through clear communication, training, and continuous process improvement.
• Monitor attendance, approve vacation requests, and maintain accurate employee records.
• Complete required data entry and maintain information within company electronic systems.
• Coordinate Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) responsibilities, including inspections and training activities.
• Participate in meetings related to coaching, safety initiatives, business strategy, and operational success.
• Assist with candidate interviews and support orientation and onboarding activities.
• Implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, quality, and employee experience.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Planning & organizing

Resource management

Production scheduling

Quality & safety emphasis

Data entry / computer skills

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

1-2 years leadership experience in manufacturing/maintenance

Bachelor’s degree with 2-3 Years of prior Leadership experience in a foundry environment preferred

Prior experience as a lead person, leadership trainee, supervisor, or similar leadership role preferred

Job description

Joseph Michaels International in Iowa is seeking a Production Supervisor to lead daily production, coordinate resources, and drive efficiency in a fast-paced manufacturing facility.

You will mentor staff, ensure safety and quality, manage schedules and performance metrics, and collaborate with managers to implement improvements. Strong leadership and communication are essential; foundry experience is a plus.