Illinois Tool Works

Operations Manager

Illinois Tool Works • $95K — $115K *
Appleton, WI 54915In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field
  • 7-10 years of progressive manufacturing management experience, including production leadership
  • Proven track record in identifying improvement opportunities and facilitating organizational change
  • Strong experience in leading cross-functional teams with measurable outcomes
  • Familiarity with operational excellence methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma
  • Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder management skills
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Responsibilities

  • Manage a team of production leaders to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with contract manufacturers and key suppliers
  • Set and implement operational objectives aligned with production goals
  • Review and approve budget proposals from team members
  • Utilize sales and inventory data to inform operational planning
  • Collaborate with supply chain teams to enhance sourcing and supply continuity
  • Recruit, develop, and retain diverse talent while supporting their career growth

Benefits

  • 401(k) match plus additional retirement contributions
  • 11 paid holidays, 5 sick days, and vacation time
  • Company-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance
  • 4 weeks of paid parental leave and adoption reimbursement
  • Tuition reimbursement for ongoing education and personal development
Full Job Description
Job Description:

Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Operations Manager will be responsible for driving results in key areas of safety, quality, productivity, delivery, and continuous improvement for the Industrial Equipment and Automation division. This position will have responsibility for multiple manufacturing operations in Appleton and partnerships with equipment contract manufacturers in US locations. The role requires a strong, enterprise-minded leader who will further develop a safety-first culture, strengthen the ITW Toolbox operations strategy, build a diverse talent pipeline, and lead continuous improvement initiatives across internal operations, key suppliers, and contract manufacturers.

Responsibilities include:
  • Manages a team of production leaders and supports the development and execution of plans to improve safety, quality, labor efficiency, and inventory improvements.
  • Manages and strengthens relationships with contract manufacturers and key suppliers for automation systems.
  • Establishes short- and long-term operational objectives and develops plans to achieve production and business goals, including budget and capital requirements.
  • Reviews, revises, and approves budget proposals from direct reports and submits budgets for assigned areas in accordance with established procedures.
  • Uses sales, inventory metrics, and forecasts to create robust operational plans
  • Partners with supply chain on strategic sourcing initiatives that improve supply continuity, cost competitiveness, and operations scalability.
  • Hires, develops, and retains a diverse team while building a strong talent pipeline and supporting career development.
  • Communicates company and department plans, priorities, and performance progress to employees and key stakeholders
  • Fosters a culture of accountability, engagement, inclusion, and continuous improvement while developing a flexible, responsive workforce.
  • Collaborates with cross-divisional teams to identify best practices and leverage shared operational capabilities and overall business growth


Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree: Operations Management, Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or similar field required.
  • Minimum of 7-10 years of relevant and progressive manufacturing management experience including leading production/direct labor
  • Demonstrated ability to identify opportunities for improvement, facilitate change, and develop innovative solutions to improve workflows and processes within the ITW Business Model.
  • Proven ability to independently lead cross-functional improvements, apply analytical and root cause problem-solving skills, and deliver measurable results
  • Understands a variety of operational excellence competencies including but not limited to: ITW Toolbox, Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma, Visual Management, Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, Kaizen, Poke Yoke, etc.
  • Ability to build strong relationships with internal and external business partners and executive-level leaders, influence without authority, and effectively manage stakeholder expectations.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication/presentation skills with a strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Ability to travel up to 20% since some direct reports and equipment contract manufacturers are in other locations (Tennessee, California, Michigan, Ohio, Illinois)

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience leading leaders with direct reports
  • P&L experience, including inventory management, budgeting, and planning capabilities
  • Previous ERP experience strongly preferred.


Key Competencies
  • Strong leadership skills: leads both people and change effectively
  • Result-driven, accountability focused - holds self and others responsible for delivering results and modeling ITW Leadership Expectations
  • Strategic Vision - ability to progressively lead an organization towards the achievement of short and long-term strategic objectives, anticipating future change implications and impacts
  • Strong business acumen paired with enterprise-first mindset (across all functional areas and the ITW Welding segment) - proactively collaborates to solve problems effectively across all levels

Why ITW Welding?

Join a collaborative and growth-focused team where your expertise will directly impact the company's financial health and operational success. We value innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Here's what we offer to help you build the future you want:
  • Generous Retirement Benefits - 401(k) match PLUS an additional retirement contribution to help you plan for the future.
  • Paid Time Off - 11 paid holidays, 5 sick days, and vacation time to take time for what matters.
  • Company-Paid Insurance - Life, AD&D, Short-Term & Long-Term Disability insurance to give you peace of mind.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits - 4 weeks of paid parental leave and adoption reimbursement to support your family journey.
  • Education Assistance - tuition reimbursement because we believe in investing in your personal and professional development.


At ITW Welding, we're not just a place to work - we're a community that empowers you to grow and make a real impact. Join us and build a career that makes a difference!

About Illinois Tool Works

ITW is an industrial manufacturing company that specializes in the fields of industrial machinery, engineering, operations, sales, marketing, finance, and accounting. It's in deep-sea oil rigs, aerospace technology, bridges and wind turbines, healthcare, the spaces in which they live and work, the cars they drive, and the mobile devices they rely on. It was founded in 1912 and headquartered in Glenview Nas, Illinois.

Illinois Tool Works Careers

Join the dynamic team at Illinois Tool Works (ITW), a global leader in diversified manufacturing, where innovation and excellence drive us forward. ITW offers unparalleled job opportunities, fostering a culture of growth and leadership in the industry.

Work You’ll Do

At Illinois Tool Works, you will be part of a professional community that thrives on creativity and innovation. Our employees are equipped with the skills needed to succeed and are provided with endless opportunities for professional growth. Engage in work that matters, with projects that transform industries and enhance futures.

Explore Career Paths

Whether you're seeking an internship, a graduate opportunity, or a seasoned professional position, ITW offers a range of career paths across various departments. Our team benefits from a supportive and diverse working environment where every member’s contribution is valued.

Innovate and Lead

Join a team where innovation leads to revolutionary solutions in industries worldwide. At ITW, you will work alongside industry experts to develop new ideas and strategies that keep us at the forefront of technological advancements. Your career at ITW will be marked by a continuous journey of growth and leadership.

Develop Your Skills

With ITW’s commitment to professional development and diversity training, you will enhance your skills through targeted training programs and workshops. These opportunities not only boost your career but also ensure you stay competitive in the job market.

Be Part of Our Culture

ITW is dedicated to building a culture that respects and embraces diversity, encourages innovation, and fosters leadership. Our team is our greatest asset, and we believe in providing them with the benefits and resources they need to succeed both professionally and personally.

Networking and Professional Growth

Expand your professional network through ITW’s global presence and collaborative work environment. Engage with professionals across different sectors, gaining insights that can lead to significant career advancements. Our networking events and professional groups help you connect with key industry leaders and peers.

Join Our Team

Search for open positions that match your skills and interests on the ITW Careers page. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to take their career to the next level.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest industry trends, company news, and career tips by following our careers blog. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails, tailored to your preferences and career goals. Explore the opportunities at Illinois Tool Works today and discover how your expertise can help shape the future of our company and the industries we serve. Join us in our mission to achieve excellence through innovation and leadership.
Learn more about Illinois Tool Works
Size
45,000 employees
Market Cap
$68.1 billion
Industry
Manufacturing & Automotive
Net Income
$2.1 billion
Founded
1912
5 Year Trend
+1.2%
Revenue
$12.5 billion
NASDAQ
ITW
* Ladders Estimates

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