We are seeking a hands-on and results-driven
Production Manager to lead manufacturing operations at our Knoxville site. Our Knoxville facility specializes in designing and producing cutting-edge automation solutions that help streamline packaging processes and drive efficiency. This role has direct leadership responsibility for Operations, Quality, Production Planning, and Project Management teams in a smaller, agile organization. The Production Manager will drive day-to-day operational execution while contributing to strategic planning, cost control, and continuous improvement.
The ideal candidate is a proven leader who has successfully led teams of 25+ people, possesses strong industrial manufacturing experience, and has formal Lean training and implementation experience (ideally within a world-class Lean organization).
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:- Provide overall leadership and direction for Operations, Quality, Production Planning, and Project Management functions.
- Oversee day-to-day production activities to ensure safe, high-quality, on-time, and cost-effective delivery of products.
- Manage production scheduling, capacity planning, and resource allocation to meet customer demands.
- Lead continuous improvement and Lean initiatives across all areas of responsibility to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance quality.
- Directly supervise, mentor, and develop managers, engineers, and technical staff across all reporting departments.
- Collaborate with the Site Director on budgeting, forecasting, and P&L performance for operations.
- Manage production costs including direct labor, materials, and overhead.
- Work closely with Engineering on design for manufacturability, new product introductions, and design reviews.
- Oversee machine shop operations, equipment utilization, and maintenance programs.
- Ensure effective inventory management, procurement coordination, and material flow.
- Monitor key performance indicators (safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity) and drive corrective actions.
- Attend proposal, work order, and design reviews to provide practical manufacturing input.
- Lead facilities maintenance, housekeeping, and site organization initiatives.
- Foster a culture of accountability, safety, quality, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
- Support customer communications, sales inquiries, and business development activities as needed.
REQUIRED EDUCATION / QUALIFICATIONS:- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related technical field.
- 7+ years of progressive industrial manufacturing experience.
- Minimum of 4+ years of leadership experience with direct responsibility for teams of 25+ people.
- Formal Lean training and demonstrated success implementing Lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies (experience in a world-class Lean organization such as Danaher, ITW, Toyota, or similar is highly preferred).
- Strong technical knowledge of manufacturing processes, machining, and design for manufacturability.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Hands-on approach with the ability to balance strategic and tactical responsibilities.
- A minimum requirement for this position is the ability to work legally in the United States on a permanent basis. No visa sponsorship/support is available for this position.
Preferred Qualifications:- Prior P&L responsibility or strong financial acumen.
- Experience with Sales & Operations Planning (SIOP) processes.
- Experience with Danaher Business System (DBS), ITW 80/20, or similar world-class operating systems.
- Local candidates to the Knoxville area strongly preferred.
- Willingness to travel up to 20% as needed.
ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: - Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
- Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization's facilities.
