PPG Industries

Operations Manager - Aerospace Materials

PPG Industries$90K — $120K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, operations, or related field or commensurate experience required.
  • Minimum 7 years' manufacturing leadership experience required.
  • Experience in chemical, coatings, sealants, or specialty materials manufacturing is strongly preferred.
  • Demonstrated success in greenfield or startup environments preferred.
  • Lean/Six Sigma certification preferred.
  • Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills required.
  • Only U.S. Citizens, Green Card holders, and political asylees or refugees are eligible to apply.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the startup and ramp-up of a greenfield manufacturing operation, including system development, commissioning, organization design, hiring, and workforce training.
  • Champion a zero-loss culture by embedding safety as a core value and implementing proactive safety, hazard identification, and root-cause problem-solving practices.
  • Establish and sustain manufacturing standards, operating procedures, visual management systems, and an integrated operating system that drives disciplined execution.
  • Model servant leadership through a strong floor presence, employee engagement, coaching, mentoring, and capability development.
  • Build a culture of ownership, accountability, teamwork, and continuous learning across the organization.
  • Drive operational excellence through lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, loss elimination, and adherence to standard work.
  • Utilize data, KPIs, and performance metrics to improve safety, quality, throughput, yield, productivity, and cost performance.

Benefits

  • Health, Dental, and Life insurance offerings.
  • Retirement Plan options available.
  • Paid Vacation & Holidays.
  • Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Disability/Leave benefits offered.
  • Other Voluntary benefit offerings.
Full Job Description
Operations Manager - Aerospace Materials

Shelby, NC

As the Operations Manager - Aerospace Materials you will be responsible for building and leading a world-class manufacturing operation from the ground up. This role will establish and sustain a high-performance culture rooted in servant leadership, total employee ownership, and a zero-loss mindset. The Operations Manager will drive safety, quality, delivery, cost, and capability while embedding an Integrated Work System aligned with best-in-class models such as P&G.

This leader will operate as a hands-on, floor-focused coach who develops people, builds systems, and ensures disciplined execution of standard work in a greenfield specialty chemical manufacturing environment.

This is an On-Site role reporting to the Shelby, NC facility. In this role you will report to the Plant Manager.

Responsibilities:
  • Lead the startup and ramp-up of a greenfield manufacturing operation, including system development, commissioning, organization design, hiring, and workforce training.
  • Champion a zero-loss culture by embedding safety as a core value and implementing proactive safety, hazard identification, and root-cause problem-solving practices.
  • Establish and sustain manufacturing standards, operating procedures, visual management systems, and an integrated operating system that drives disciplined execution.
  • Model servant leadership through a strong floor presence, employee engagement, coaching, mentoring, and capability development.
  • Build a culture of ownership, accountability, teamwork, and continuous learning across the organization.
  • Drive operational excellence through lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, loss elimination, and adherence to standard work.
  • Utilize data, KPIs, and performance metrics to improve safety, quality, throughput, yield, productivity, and cost performance.
  • Recruit, develop, and lead high-performing cross-functional teams, establishing clear expectations and accountability systems.
  • Oversee production operations, including scheduling, material flow, inventory management, and collaboration with supply chain and planning functions.
  • Deliver business results by achieving safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives while managing operational budgets and resources.


Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, operations, or related field or commensurate experience required.
  • Minimum 7 years' manufacturing leadership experience required.
  • Experience in chemical, coatings, sealants, or specialty materials manufacturing is strongly preferred.
  • Demonstrated success in greenfield or startup environments preferred.
  • Lean/Six Sigma certification preferred.
  • Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills required.
  • Only U.S. Citizens, Green Card holders, and political asylees or refugees are eligible to apply.


#LI-PRT1

#IQ

PPG offers comprehensive benefits such as Health, Dental, Life, Retirement Plan, Paid Vacation & Holidays, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Disability/Leave, and other Voluntary benefit offerings. Actual benefit offerings confirmed at the time of hire.

About PPG Industries

PPG Industrial Coatings is a global supplier of paints, coatings, optical products, and building materials. They have been pioneering in complete solutions focused on technology and quality in the industrial market.

PPG Industries Careers

Join the vibrant team at PPG Industries, a leader in diversified coatings and specialty materials, where innovation thrives and career growth is fostered. At PPG Industries, we are committed to providing a dynamic work environment that encourages professional development and leadership.

Work You’ll Do

At PPG Industries, your work will directly contribute to the company's mission of protecting and beautifying the world. As part of our team, you will use your skills to advance coating technologies, collaborate on industry-leading projects, and help customers navigate their challenges in new and innovative ways.

Join Our Market-Leading Team

Become a part of a company where diversity and inclusion fuel our success. PPG Industries is home to a global team of professionals dedicated to operational excellence and innovative solutions. Here, you can lead in the marketplace by leveraging our industry expertise and global reach.

Innovative Work

Engage in work that makes a difference. PPG Industries is at the forefront of developing sustainable solutions that customers depend on to enhance their products and protect the environment. Our commitment to innovation is evident in every layer of our business, from research and development to marketing and sales.

Career Development

Future-proof your career at PPG Industries. We offer a wealth of job opportunities and paths to advancement, supported by comprehensive training and diversity programs. Whether you're seeking an internship, an entry-level position, or a leadership role, PPG provides the resources and support to help you succeed.

Be Part of a Great Team

Our culture is built on collaboration and respect, with a focus on achieving collective goals. At PPG Industries, you’ll work alongside talented individuals who share your passion for excellence and innovation. Together, we drive the industry forward, making an impact on a global scale.

Explore Job Opportunities

PPG Industries is hiring! Explore open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. From internships to full-time roles, each position offers a chance to thrive in a nurturing environment.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest career tips, industry insights, and company news—all from the people who work at PPG Industries. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails, tailored to your preferences and professional goals.

Networking and Professional Growth

Take advantage of PPG’s extensive networking opportunities. Connect with leaders and peers within the company through various platforms and events. Enhance your resume, prepare for your next interview, and build relationships that could shape the future of your career. At PPG Industries, we don’t just offer jobs—we offer careers filled with growth, support, and endless possibilities. Join us and be part of a company that values innovation, leadership, and a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Learn more about PPG Industries
Size
49,300 employees
Market Cap
$29.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
$1 billion
Founded
1983
5 Year Trend
+3.3%
Revenue
$13.8 billion
NASDAQ

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