Production Manager - TMA

Position: Production Manager

Reports to: General Manager

About Us: Ward Manufacturing Co., Inc. is a family-owned company specializing in precision metal stamping, serving industries like heavy machinery for over 80 years. Our production floor is equipped with a range of 34+ stamping presses from 5 to 330 tons, including both Mechanical and Servo presses, and we are committed to a culture of quality and safety. Join our team and contribute to our long-standing tradition of precision manufacturing excellence.

Description: This role oversees production operations on the floor, ensuring the efficient and timely manufacturing of precision metal stampings while fostering a collaborative team environment. The Production Manager will be responsible for the overall performance, efficiency, and development of the production department. This position requires a strategic, hands-on leader to implement and continuously improve production processes, aimed at increasing Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE). Additionally, the manager will lead initiatives that enhance team training, operational efficiencies, and capacity utilization, with key performance indicators focused on capacity improvement and measurable gains in OEE. The Production Manager will work closely with the General Manager and other department managers to ensure success.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Align with Company Goals: Support Ward Manufacturing's mission by aligning production strategies with organizational objectives and quality standards.
2. Lead and Develop: Inspire and motivate a skilled team, fostering a culture of safety, continuous learning, and engagement through targeted training and professional growth opportunities.
3. Empower and Engage: Encourage teamwork, accountability, and a positive work environment that promotes professional development and collective success.
4. Plan and Oversee Production: Schedule resources effectively to meet customer demand, optimize workforce allocation, and ensure quality and efficiency in daily operations.
5. Optimize Processes and Performance: Streamline workflows, reduce waste, improve productivity, and monitor KPIs to ensure efficiency, on-time delivery, and quality outcomes.
6. Drive Continuous Improvement: Lead and communicate initiatives in lean manufacturing, process optimization, and innovation, while updating procedures to support ongoing enhancements.
7. Ensure Safety and Compliance: Maintain a safe work environment by enforcing safety protocols, checking equipment, and cultivating a safety-conscious culture.

Qualifications and Experience

• 5-10 years production management role within a manufacturing environment, preferably in precision metal stamping.
• Strong understanding of production workflows, lean manufacturing, and OEE principles, with hands-on experience in improving production metrics.
• Proven ability to lead and develop a diverse team, fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and accountability.
• Proficient in data analysis to identify trends, resolve inefficiencies, and support informed decision-making and process development.

Additional Preferred Qualifications

• Industrial or Mechanical Engineering Degree or commensurate experience
• Six Sigma Certified and ISO Experience
• Bilingual (Spanish)

Salary Range: $75-$100K