Manufacturing Operations Manager

CubeSpace ADCS; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the manufacturing sector is seeking a Manufacturing Operations Manager to oversee and optimize production activities. This role requires strong leadership skills and a solid background in manufacturing processes, safety protocols, and quality compliance. Candidates should possess a relevant degree and extensive experience in a managerial capacity to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with 3+ years in a leadership role.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing workflows and quality systems (e.g., ISO, Six Sigma).
• Lean or Six Sigma certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily manufacturing operations to meet production targets.
• Lead and develop production supervisors and team members.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-Solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronic Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing

Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management

Tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

The Manufacturing Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing daily production activities, ensuring manufacturing processes run efficiently, safely, and in compliance with quality standards. This role involves managing production teams, coordinating schedules, troubleshooting workflow issues, and driving continuous improvement to optimize output and reduce costs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and oversee daily manufacturing operations to meet production targets, quality standards, and delivery schedules.
• Lead, coach, and develop production supervisors and team members to build a high-performing workforce.
• Supervise, mentor, and coordinate activities of production team members, including technicians and technologists.
• Monitor and enforce safety protocols and compliance with OSHA or local regulations.
• Provide hands-on technical leadership and support to production team.
• Ensure production targets for output, quality, and delivery are consistently met or exceeded.
• Collaborate with planning, industrialisation, quality, and engineering teams to resolve issues and drive improvements.
• Maintain accurate production reports and KPIs, and provide regular updates to senior leadership.
• Implement and support lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Identify process bottlenecks and implement solutions to improve efficiency.
• Oversee equipment availability, maintenance schedules, and downtime mitigation.
• Train team members on standard operating procedures and ensure adherence to company policies.
• Support new product introductions and ensure readiness of manufacturing lines.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 7+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with 3+ years in a leadership or managerial role..
• Strong understanding of manufacturing workflows, safety standards, and quality systems (e.g., ISO, Six Sigma).
• Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced production environment.
• Lean or Six Sigma certification (preferred but not required).

Preferred Traits:

• Technically sound with results-driven mindset with a focus on operational excellence.
• Hands-on leadership style with a collaborative approach.
• Familiarity with root cause analysis tools (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone diagram).
• Commitment to fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.