Operations Lead
Ward ApparatusPosition Summary We are seeking an experienced Operations Lead to lead the day-to-day operations of our manufacturing organization. This is a hands-on leadership position responsible for ensuring that production runs safely, efficiently, and on schedule. The Operations Lead will work closely with production leaders and employees to establish priorities, resolve issues, improve processes, and maintain accountability throughout the manufacturing operation. This position will play an important role in developing a more organized, data-driven, and scalable manufacturing environment. The Operations Lead will work closely with the Director of Manufacturing, who is responsible for the broader manufacturing strategy, long-term planning, and organizational development. The Operations Lead's primary focus is execution and operational performance . Essential Duties and Responsibilities Lead and manage daily manufacturing operations across assigned departments. Establish daily and weekly production priorities and ensure schedules are being executed. Monitor production performance, identify obstacles, and take corrective action. Manage and develop production leads, supervisors, and other manufacturing personnel. Ensure appropriate staffing and resources are available to meet production requirements. Monitor key performance measures including productivity, schedule performance, labor utilization, quality, and efficiency. Promote a culture of safety, accountability, quality, and continuous improvement. Identify opportunities to improve workflow, productivity, and manufacturing processes. Work closely with Engineering, Quality, Procurement, Sales, and other departments to resolve issues and maintain production flow. Ensure established processes, drawings, specifications, and quality requirements are followed. Communicate production issues, capacity constraints, and other significant concerns to the Director of Manufacturing. Help develop and implement effective production tracking and management systems. Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) 5+ years of progressive manufacturing or operations experience. Proven ability to lead and manage daily manufacturing operations across assigned departments Demonstrated ability to lead production teams, coach employees, address performance concerns, and hold team members accountable for safety, quality, and productivity. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a changing production environment. Ability to collaborate effectively with Engineering, Quality, Procurement, Sales, and other departments · Organized – employees know what needs to be done and when. Accountable – performance expectations are clear and consistently managed. Predictable – production schedules and commitments can be reliably executed. Efficient – resources, labor, and equipment are used effectively. Improving – problems are identified, addressed, and prevented from recurring. Physical Demands and Work Environment Work is performed in both office and manufacturing settings, with a regular presence on the production floor. Production areas may include operating machinery, moving equipment, and manufacturing noise. Appropriate personal protective equipment must be worn in designated areas, consistent with facility safety requirements. The position involves changing production priorities, operational interruptions, and coordination across multiple departments. Pay: $62,500.00 - $67,000.00 per year Benefits: 401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Parental leave Vision insurance Work Location: In person