Production Manager - Core & Cooler Manufacturing Operations

Description

Position Summary

The Production Manager Core & Cooler – Manufacturing Operations is responsible for leading multiple production departments  to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality manufacturing performance. This role provides strategic and hands-on leadership to frontline supervisors and production teams, driving operational excellence, continuous improvement, and alignment with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead daily operations across multiple manufacturing departments (Fin/Profile, Core Assembly, CAB, Weld Preparation and      Cooler or similar functions) 
• Ensure production targets, quality standards, and delivery schedules are consistently met 
• Make real-time operational decisions to optimize safety, efficiency, and output      
• Monitor and adjust staffing, scheduling, and workflow to meet production demands 

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of supervisors and production employees 
• Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement 
• Conduct performance reviews, set goals, and support employee development 
• Partner with HR on hiring, employee relations, and workforce planning 

Production Planning & Execution

• Oversee production metrics, reporting, and performance tracking 
• Manage a low volume and high mix production schedule within SAP environment  
• Lead daily production meetings and communicate priorities across teams 
• Ensure accurate timekeeping, staffing alignment, and labor efficiency 

Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement process improvements, cost reductions, and waste elimination      
• Drive operational efficiency through data analysis and problem-solving 
• Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives 

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and environmental requirements 
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure proper use of PPE and equipment 

Qualifications & Experience

Required:

• 7–10+ years of manufacturing experience, with at least 3–5 years in a leadership role (Manager, or equivalent) 
• Experience leading multiple production areas or departments in a manufacturing environment – Heat exchanger      manufacturing experience preferred
• Strong leadership, communication, and team development skills 
• Ability to analyze production data and drive performance improvements 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing systems (ERP/MRP SAP preferred) 
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings or blueprints 

Preferred:

• Experience in heavy manufacturing, industrial production, or engineered products - Heat exchanger manufacturing experience preferred
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience 
• Experience managing low volume high mix  production environments 

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Manufacturing and warehouse environment 
• Ability to walk the production floor regularly and engage with teams 
• Occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs) and use of standard industrial equipment 
• Required use of PPE (steel toe shoes, safety glasses, hearing protection) 

Additional Information

• This role requires flexibility to support multiple shifts as needed 
• Regular on-site presence is essential to lead and support operations 
• Responsibilities may evolve based on business needs