Production Area Manager

Role Summary

This is an onsite position based at our location in Gastonia, NC. 

The Production Area Manager plays a crucial role in overseeing the manufacturing process within our Heavy-Duty Air Filtration department to ensure efficient operations while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. The ideal candidate will have a strong leadership presence, a hands-on approach, and a commitment to achieving production targets while maintaining safety, quality, and cost objectives.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee the operation of the assigned production lines, ensuring they meet daily, weekly, and monthly production targets
• Plan, organize, and supervise all activities in the production area to ensure efficiency and high-quality standards
• Actively monitor production performance, identifying areas of improvement and implementing corrective actions as needed
• Foster a strong safety culture within the team and ensure strict adherence to all safety standards and guidelines in compliance with local and global regulations.
• Conduct regular safety audits and lead initiatives to reduce workplace accidents, injuries, and health risks
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949 standards, driving continuous improvement in quality systems
• Ensure that production output adheres to the highest quality standards, implementing corrective actions as needed to address quality issues
• Coordinate with the quality team to monitor quality metrics and identify root causes of defects, working to reduce scrap, rework, and warranty claims
• Lead root cause analysis and problem-solving efforts for any deviations from quality standards
• Monitor and manage production costs, including labor, materials, and overhead, to meet budget targets
• Implement cost-reduction initiatives, including process improvements, waste reduction, and lean manufacturing practices
• Regularly report on key performance indicators (KPIs), such as production output, downtime, quality, and cost efficiency
• Supervise and lead a team of production supervisors, operators, technicians, and other staff, ensuring high morale, motivation, and performance
• Provide hands-on coaching and support to team members, helping them achieve operational goals and improve skills
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide feedback, training, and development opportunities for employees
• Lead continuous improvement projects using Lean, Six Sigma, and other relevant methodologies to increase productivity, reduce waste, and improve product quality
• Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and other departments to identify and implement process improvements
• Maintain accurate production records, reports, and documentation in compliance with company policies and IATF 16949 requirements
• Report on production performance, quality issues, and safety incidents to senior management. (Same in Cost Optimization)

REQUIREMENTS

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Manufacturing, Business Administration, or a related field

Experience:

• 5 years' minimum experience in a manufacturing leadership role

Required Skills:

• Hands-on leadership style with the ability to actively engage with and support the production team
• Expertise in safety management and a commitment to fostering a culture of safety
• Strong problem-solving skills with experience in root cause analysis and continuous improvement processes (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma)
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and team-building skills
• Proficiency in production management software and Microsoft Office tools
• Knowledge of cost management principles, with a focus on optimizing efficiency and reducing waste

Preferred Experience and Skills:

• Manufacturing team leadership within the automotive industry
• Strong knowledge of IATF 16949 quality standards and their application in a manufacturing environment