Senior Operations Manager - Complex Automotive Manufacturing

The Keystone Distinction Group; Bloomington (IL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

The Keystone Distinction Group is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, with a focus on automotive supplier context. This role requires hands-on leadership to drive on-time delivery, quality, and cost management.

Responsibilities include leading production teams, implementing Lean and 5S, monitoring KPIs, and supporting new program launches and ramp-ups.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and problem-solving methodologies.
• Experience managing complex manufacturing operations; automotive supplier experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily plant operations to achieve safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Lead production teams and ensure customer schedules and manufacturing requirements are met.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and operational efficiencies.
• Monitor labor efficiency, machine utilization, production performance, and operating costs.
• Lead and develop Production Supervisors, Team Leaders, Technicians, and production personnel.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards, customer-specific requirements, and safety policies.
• Lead root cause analysis and 8D corrective actions to address quality, downtime, and production issues.
• Support new program launches, production readiness, and manufacturing ramp-up activities.
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve productivity, and increase plant profitability.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient manufacturing environment.
• Communicate operational performance, improvement initiatives, and business results to senior management.
• Promote employee engagement, accountability, and a culture of operational excellence.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Continuous Improvement

Problem-Solving

Leadership

Project Management

Safety Compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience

Job description

The Keystone Distinction Group is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day plant operations in a complex manufacturing environment, with a focus on automotive supplier context. This role requires hands-on leadership to drive on-time delivery, quality, and cost management.

Responsibilities include leading production teams, implementing Lean and 5S, monitoring KPIs, and supporting new program launches and ramp-ups.