Operations Manager

Comfort Research • Grand Rapids, MI

18d • Onsite

About The Position

The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the manufacturing process within our Grand Rapids production facility. This includes managing production schedules, ensuring quality control standards are met, optimizing operational efficiency, and fostering a safe and productive work environment. Additionally, the Operations Manager takes ownership of the facility's needs, ensuring that all resources are adequately maintained and any issues are promptly addressed. The Operations Manager collaborates with various departments to streamline processes and achieve production targets while adhering to budgetary constraints.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, business management, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
• Over 5 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, with a strong background in leadership and team management.
• Demonstrated leadership and communication skills with a proven ability to motivate teams, mentor managers, and support succession planning.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire teams.
• Proficiency in data analysis and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Lean), with hands-on experience in Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, 5S, and Total Productive Maintenance.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines.
• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing software applications.
• Knowledge of environmental, health, and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate the Core Values of Comfort Research in daily actions, execution of tasks, and interactions with others.
• Develop and implement production plans that align with customer demand, inventory goals, and budget forecasts, while ensuring customer expectations are consistently met.
• Monitor production processes to ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Optimize production workflows to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.
• Coordinate with the Supply Chain team to ensure the timely availability of raw materials and components.
• Provide leadership, direction, and development opportunities to production staff, including leads, operators, and production line workers.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide training and development opportunities for team members.
• Address employee concerns and maintain a positive work environment.
• Implement and enforce safety protocols to minimize workplace accidents and ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections to identify hazards and implement corrective actions.
• Establish and maintain quality control procedures to ensure products meet specifications and customer expectations.
• Responsible for executing compliance audits and ensuring readiness. Provides support to others during external audits as needed.
• Investigate and address root causes of quality issues and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization, cost reduction, and productivity improvement.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement by mentoring staff in Lean tools and collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement impactful Lean initiatives.
• Analyze production data to identify trends, improve performance, and guide strategic decisions.
• Develop and manage risk mitigation plans to ensure operational stability and compliance.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement strategies to control expenses while maintaining quality and efficiency.
• Monitor financial performance against budget targets and analyze the P&L impact of operational decisions, reporting key insights to senior leadership.
• Act as the true owner of the business and the Grand Rapids site, demonstrating accountability for overall performance, fostering a strong culture, and driving continuous improvement across all areas.
• Support the Operations team in shared goals and initiatives.
• HAVE FUN!
• Other duties as assigned by leadership.

Benefits

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) plan that begins accruing upon hire for eligible Ambassadors
• Culture Awards program with opportunities to win cash prizes or extra PTO in addition to company-wide recognition
• Several paid holidays throughout the year
• Employee Assistance Program
• Growing family bonus & extra PTO for new parents
• Referral Bonus program
• 401(k) program with a generous company match
• A variety of health insurance plans to choose from with company contributions to premiums
• Dental, vision, and other ancillary insurance coverages available
• Company-paid Short-Term Disability coverage
• Company-paid Life Insurance policy
• Free product allowances & product discounts

What This Job Offers

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