Production Manager – Manufacturing

Position Overview

Headwaters Talent Advisors is partnering with an established manufacturing organization to identify an experienced Production Manager. This position will be responsible for overseeing daily production activities, coordinating manufacturing operations, and ensuring production goals are achieved while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in industrial manufacturing, production planning, and employee leadership, along with the ability to identify process improvements, resolve operational challenges, and support continued organizational growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate daily manufacturing operations to ensure production schedules, quality standards, and operational objectives are consistently achieved.
• Develop and manage production schedules, establish operational priorities, and allocate resources to support customer requirements and delivery commitments.
• Monitor production performance, identify operational challenges, and implement solutions to improve efficiency and minimize downtime.
• Review production orders, technical specifications, and manufacturing requirements to ensure proper planning and execution.
• Collaborate with maintenance personnel to address equipment performance, preventive maintenance needs, and production-related repairs.
• Coordinate staffing, equipment utilization, and material requirements to support efficient manufacturing operations.
• Review production reports, operating data, and performance metrics to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Develop, implement, and maintain standard operating procedures to promote consistency, productivity, and quality.
• Partner with engineering, quality, maintenance, and other operational departments to resolve production challenges.
• Ensure manufacturing processes and equipment are operated in accordance with established safety and quality standards.
• Train, mentor, and develop production personnel to strengthen technical capabilities, accountability, and overall team performance.
• Support the implementation of process improvements, operational initiatives, and manufacturing best practices.
• Maintain accurate production records, operational documentation, and performance reporting.
• Address employee concerns, provide performance feedback, and support personnel development initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field preferred.
• 2–4 years of relevant manufacturing or production experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated leadership experience within an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of production planning, manufacturing processes, equipment utilization, and operational efficiency.
• Experience coordinating production schedules, staffing requirements, and manufacturing resources.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, production specifications, and operational documentation.
• Working knowledge of industrial safety practices, quality standards, and manufacturing procedures.
• Familiarity with welding processes and fabrication operations preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and general manufacturing or production management software.
• Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems preferred.
• Strong communication, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with employees, supervisors, and cross-functional leadership teams.

Leadership Responsibilities

The Production Manager will provide leadership and direction to manufacturing personnel, ensuring employees have the resources, training, and support necessary to meet production objectives.

Responsibilities include coordinating daily work assignments, monitoring employee performance, supporting hiring and training activities, addressing operational concerns, and maintaining accountability for safety, quality, and productivity.

The successful candidate will demonstrate a hands-on leadership approach, foster collaboration across departments, and promote a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Work Environment

This position operates in an industrial manufacturing environment and requires regular interaction with production personnel and equipment. Candidates should be comfortable working in an active manufacturing setting while adhering to established safety procedures.