Manufacturing Operations Manager

Ready to lead a growing team in one of manufacturing's hottest growth sectors?We're hiring an Operations Manager for the Power Grid Division of an established, award-winning manufacturer - one of the largest metal fabricators in the Midwest, with a 45+ year track record and a customer base ranging from family businesses to Fortune 50 companies.This is a rare opportunity to step into a high-volume, high-growth operation that is expanding fast thanks to demand in power grid, data center, and EV charging infrastructure. You'll lead a team of 20 today, growing to 40+ within the year, and you'll have real input into building out a second shift and executing a facility expansion.The role:🔹 Own daily operations across laser cutting, CNC machining, forming, welding, powder coating, assembly, and shipping🔹 Build and lead a growing two-shift team🔹 Drive safety, quality, and continuous improvement🔹 Own scheduling, labor planning, and KPIs (OEE, scrap rate, on-time delivery)🔹 Partner cross-functionally with supply chain, engineering, and quality teams🔹 Recruit, develop, and mentor your teamWhat you bring:✅ 7+ years in manufacturing, with 3+ years in plant/operations leadership✅ A self-starter mindset - comfortable driving change independently✅ Strong people leadership and the ability to build trust with an experienced team✅ Experience in high-volume, repeat-order production environmentsBonus points for a background in power grid/transformer/heavy electrical manufacturing, Lean/5S experience, or ERP systems knowledge - but we're prioritizing leadership and operational instincts over a specific industry pedigree.Why this role: This division is scaling fast, and so is the opportunity. Strong performers have a clear path to expanded plant leadership. Compensation is competitive and flexible for the right fit, with a full benefits package including medical/dental/vision, 401(k) match, PTO, tuition assistance, and more.If you're ready to lead, build, and grow with a company on the rise, let's talk!#ManufacturingJobs #OperationsManager #PlantManager #NowHiring #PowerGrid #MidwestManufacturing