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Manufacturing Operations Manager
$ 120000.00 - $ 130000.00
Posted 08/11/2026
Permanent/Direct Hire
Permanent/Direct Hire
Job ID:
27564
Job Description
Our client is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead a significant portion of production operations at a high-volume automotive manufacturing facility in Zeeland, Michigan. This is a highly visible plant leadership role with responsibility for approximately 60 employees across three shifts, including three direct-report Production Supervisors as well as Team Leads and Operators.
This individual will own day-to-day operational performance while also helping shape longer-term manufacturing strategy.
Success in this position requires more than keeping production on schedule. Our client is looking for a hands-on, credible manufacturing leader who understands the demands of the automotive industry and can balance safety, quality, delivery, cost, people development, new product introductions, and continuous improvement.
This is an excellent opportunity for an established automotive operations leader who enjoys being close to the plant floor while having the scope and authority to make meaningful operational improvements.
Responsibilities
- Lead manufacturing operations across an assigned business unit with responsibility for approximately 60 employees across three shifts.
- Directly lead, coach, and develop three Production Supervisors while building accountability throughout the Team Lead and Operator structure.
- Execute production plans while ensuring operations achieve established safety, quality, cost, and delivery objectives.
- Provide leadership for high-volume assembly operations and support additional manufacturing processes as assigned.
- Monitor operational and financial performance, identify performance gaps, and implement corrective actions.
- Balance daily production requirements with new product launches, process changes, and other manufacturing initiatives.
- Coordinate with manufacturing, engineering, product development, quality, supply chain, and procurement teams to ensure appropriate labor, materials, equipment, and support resources are available.
- Develop and execute short- and long-term operational strategies that support plant and business objectives.
- Identify equipment and capital requirements and provide recommendations supporting productivity, capacity, quality, and cost objectives.
- Champion continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, waste elimination, and cost-reduction initiatives throughout the operation.
- Evaluate manufacturing processes, systems, policies, and procedures and implement improvements that strengthen operational performance.
- Develop a strong leadership pipeline through coaching, mentoring, training, and performance management.
- Build a cohesive, accountable manufacturing team capable of consistently meeting production and customer requirements.
- Maintain a strong presence on the manufacturing floor and work closely with frontline leadership to quickly identify and resolve operational issues.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree required
- 10+ years of automotive manufacturing experience
- 5+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership, production management, or operations management experience.
Preferred Experience
- Experience supporting new product launches or new product introductions within an automotive manufacturing environment.
- Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, waste reduction, and cost optimization experience.
- Experience participating in capital equipment planning and manufacturing process improvements.
- Strong understanding of the financial impact of manufacturing decisions and operational performance.
Titles Encouraged to Apply
- Manufacturing Manager
- Operations Manager
- Production Manager
- Assembly Manager
- Senior Production Manager
- Manufacturing Operations Leader
- Plant Manager
If you are an automotive manufacturing leader who can develop people, improve processes, and drive measurable performance across a complex production operation, this opportunity offers meaningful responsibility and the ability to make an impact across an established manufacturing team.
About Zeeland, MI
Ready to kickstart your career in the vibrant city of Zeeland, Michigan? Explore our job opportunities in this thriving community that offers endless possibilities for professional growth. Known for its Dutch heritage, charming tulip festivals, and picturesque Windmill Island Gardens, Zeeland embraces a unique culture that blends tradition with innovation. With close proximity to Lake Michigan, Holland State Park, and the iconic Nelis' Dutch Village, this area provides a perfect balance of work and leisure. Don't miss the chance to work in a place where art flourishes at the Holland Area Arts Council, catch a show at the Knickerbocker Theatre, or cheer on the West Michigan Whitecaps at the Fifth Third Ballpark. Start your journey to success in Zeeland, where opportunities are as abundant as the tulips in spring!
