Manufacturing/Production Manager

Bluefors•Syracuse, NY

5h•$125,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly capable and results‑driven Manufacturing/Production Manager to lead our growing, low‑volume/high‑complexity production operation focused on advanced cryogenic refrigeration systems. This role oversees multiple production departments along with the manufacturing engineering and maintenance teams, ensuring seamless coordination across all stages of the manufacturing process. The ideal candidate is a hands‑on, strategic leader who thrives in a dynamic technical environment with an eagerness to become deeply involved in the day-to-day production processes. They will drive daily operational performance, optimize workflows, and support continuous improvement initiatives while maintaining rigorous standards of safety, quality, and efficiency. Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and analytical skills are essential for success. The Manufacturing/Production Manager ensures that production schedules are accurate and achievable, resources are effectively allocated, and key performance targets are consistently met. This position also requires strong data‑gathering and analysis capabilities to support sound decision‑making, anticipate disruptions, and sustain long‑term operational stability. This is an opportunity to take ownership of a critical manufacturing operation and make a real, visible impact. As Manufacturing/Production Manager, you will play a key role in driving performance, building strong teams, and shaping how products are built, delivered, and continuously improved. If you thrive in a hands-on manufacturing environment, enjoy solving complex operational challenges, and are motivated by improving safety, quality, and efficiency, this role offers the chance to lead meaningful change and help scale a growing operation.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, scheduling, and capacity planning
Demonstrated success driving continuous improvement (Lean and Six Sigma, etc.)
Strong leadership, communication, and team development skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, results-driven environment
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
Bachelor’s degree in engineering with 7-10 years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably low‑volume/high‑complexity or engineered‑to‑order production, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience with safety programs and regulatory compliance.
ERP/MRP system experience; using KPIs and data to drive performance improvements.

Nice To Haves

Experience with new product introduction and process improvement projects a plus.
Professional certifications are a plus, including Six Sigma Green or Black Belt, Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE), Project Management Professional (PMP), or Certified Plant Manager (CPM).

Responsibilities

Lead and manage daily manufacturing operations across multiple production departments and shifts
Oversee production, manufacturing engineering, and maintenance teams to ensure alignment with production goals
Manage the entire production lifecycle from planning and scheduling through execution and delivery
Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement
Develop, maintain, and execute accurate production schedules to meet customer demand and business objectives
Lead safety initiatives and ensure compliance with OSHA, company policies, and regulatory requirements
Ensure efficient utilization of labor, equipment, materials, and resources
Lead and sustain Lean and Six Sigma initiatives, including 5S, standard work, waste reduction, visual management, and continuous improvement programs
Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity
Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) and use data to drive operational decisions
Identify bottlenecks and implement process improvements to increase throughput and efficiency
Partner with Engineering to support new product introductions, process changes, and capital projects
Ensure preventive and corrective maintenance programs support production uptime and equipment reliability
Lead the selection, training, coaching, and development of supervisors and production staff.
Collaborate with Quality to ensure products meet internal and customer quality standards
Support budgeting, cost control, and productivity improvement efforts
Participate in strategic planning and support long-term operational capacity planning
Other duties as assigned