Production Manager - UniFirst

UniFirst•Stockton, CA

About The Position

The Production Manager leads the Production Department to ensure efficient product flow, maintain quality standards, optimize resources, and support growth and profitability. Reporting to the General Manager, this role manages and develops a diverse team, promotes collaboration and accountability, and aligns production objectives with broader business goals. Responsibilities include continuous improvement, production scheduling, cost analysis, quality initiatives, safety compliance, wastewater process optimization, inventory and vendor oversight, and equipment maintenance. The position works across Service, Sales, Maintenance, and Office departments and oversees employee management from hiring and onboarding through development, retention, and offboarding.

Requirements

Minimum age of 21.
Valid driver's license and safe driving record.
High school diploma or GED equivalent.
At least 4 years of relevant leadership experience, including team building and interpersonal relationship skills.
Ability to lift and carry items and to stand and walk for extended periods.
Willingness to travel occasionally, less than 25%.
Bachelor's degree or at least 4 years of production management experience, with leadership, process improvement skills, and knowledge of industry best practices.
Financial literacy to analyze production costs and make data-driven decisions.
Proficiency in Microsoft Suite.
Commitment to safety and compliance initiatives.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with ISO standards and/or Lean Six Sigma methodologies.
Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish.

Responsibilities

Guide the Production Department in process optimization and continuous improvement.
Manage resources to meet production targets while maintaining quality and cost efficiency.
Lead and support team members, fostering a collaborative and accountable work environment.
Promote a service-oriented culture that delivers value to internal and external stakeholders.
Conduct quality audits and root cause analyses, and implement corrective actions.
Analyze production costs and identify cost-saving opportunities.
Conduct safety inspections and provide training and proactive safety initiatives.
Optimize wastewater processes to improve efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
Oversee inventory management, vendor relationships, and equipment maintenance.
Develop and implement production schedules and drive operational improvements.
Collaborate with Service, Sales, Maintenance, and Office departments to align production goals with business objectives.
Navigate change and challenges using strategic agility to support long-term success.
Oversee employee hiring, onboarding, talent development, retention, and offboarding.