Operations Manager

Novolex • Grottoes, VA

28d • Onsite

About The Position

The Unit Operations Manager oversees all aspects of production operations within a designated unit at the Grottoes’ facility. This role ensures efficient, safe, and cost-effective manufacturing that meets quality standards and production goals. The Operations Manager leads a team of supervisors and hourly employees to drive performance, continuous improvement, and employee engagement.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, business, or a related field required.
• 7+ years of manufacturing operations experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, develop action plans, and deliver results.
• Solid understanding of production planning, inventory control, and process improvement.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with SAP, ERP, and Microsoft Office applications.

Nice To Haves

• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification.
• Experience in plastics or packaging manufacturing.
• Labor Relations and Union experience is preferred.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily production operations to meet safety, quality, cost, and delivery targets.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize equipment utilization, labor efficiency, and material use.
• Ensure compliance with safety policies, regulations, and environmental standards.
• Monitor and improve key performance indicators (KPIs) for production, yield, scrap, downtime, and labor efficiency.
• Lead, mentor, and develop production supervisors and frontline employees.
• Coordinate with maintenance, engineering, quality, and planning teams to ensure smooth production.
• Ensure training programs are in place to support operational excellence and safety awareness.
• Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for production issues.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other methodologies.
• Manage budgets, capital projects, and operational expenses within the unit.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Variety of other well-being resources focused on mental, physical and financial health
• Tuition Reimbursement Program (Non-Union)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager