Department Manager

About This Role

Directing manufacturing operations and driving safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance is the core of this role. The Department Manager builds and develops high-performing frontline teams while ensuring operational excellence and continuous improvement across daily production activities. This role reports to the Unit Manager and leads a team of frontline production employees and supervisors.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily manufacturing operations to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient production that meets volume, quality, and customer requirements
• Build, coach, and develop a high-performing frontline team through effective hiring, training, performance management, and employee engagement practices
• Drive operational excellence by utilizing KPI management, visual management systems, standard work, and continuous improvement methodologies to improve productivity and reliability
• Analyze operational data to identify downtime, waste, and performance improvement opportunities, translating insights into actionable solutions
• Manage controllable costs including labor, overtime, waste, utilities, and supplies while supporting inventory accuracy and production planning objectives
• Partner with Maintenance, Human Resources, Quality, Supply Chain, union leadership, auditors, and site leadership to resolve operational challenges and achieve plant goals
• Lead problem-solving initiatives, corrective actions, and change management efforts while ensuring sustained results through training, verification, and accountability

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field (Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering preferred) or equivalent technical manufacturing experience
• Experience leading manufacturing, production, or operations teams in a plant environment
• Strong knowledge of operational excellence, continuous improvement methodologies, root cause analysis, and performance management systems
• Experience utilizing production and financial data to make informed business decisions and drive operational results
• Demonstrated ability to manage employee relations, workforce planning, and cross-functional collaboration in a manufacturing setting

Benefits

• Total Rewards Package – performance-based pay recognizing your contributions to our success
• Comprehensive Benefits & Wellness Support – Health, long-term savings, and resources for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being
• Career Growth – Learning, training, and development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement
• Employee Recognition Program – A culture of real-time appreciation, with personalized recognition rewards globally
• Employee Discount Program – Provides exclusive discounts on everyday products, services, and travel