Production Manager

Continental Group Sector ContiTech • Halstead, KS

14d

About The Position

The Production Manager leads and coordinates plant operations to achieve goals in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee engagement. The role drives performance against corporate and regional KPIs and champions continuous improvement through Lean manufacturing practices. It works closely with cross-functional teams and provides direct oversight of department managers and production operators.

The Production Manager collaborates with HR, Quality, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Finance to execute objectives; follows up on action items and promotes plant-wide accountability; facilitates new processes, materials, and cost-reduction initiatives; and supports clear communication and conflict resolution across shifts. The role coaches and develops Value Stream Managers and support teams and ensures compliance with ISO, OSHA, and company standards.

The work takes place in a non-climate-controlled environment with temperature swings, forklift and pedestrian traffic, and noise. The position involves physical tasks, including lifting and operating machinery, with comprehensive training provided. Travel to other plants and corporate meetings may be required and is less than 10%.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Business, Quality Management, Lean Specialist, or a related field.
• 3+ years of operations management experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution and team development.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing tools and philosophies.
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in rubber manufacturing or conveyor belt production.
• Strong ability to prioritize tasks, manage competing deadlines, and stay organized in a fast-paced environment.
• Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills, along with active listening abilities.
• Proven ability to work well with others, build relationships, and contribute to a team-oriented culture.
• Comfort with change and ability to adjust quickly to new processes, technologies, or workplace challenges.
• Ability to guide, inspire, and motivate others while fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate plant operations to achieve goals in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee engagement.
• Drive performance metrics aligned with corporate and regional KPIs.
• Champion continuous improvement using tools such as 5S, Standard Work, TPM, Heijunka, and Visual Management.
• Collaborate with HR, Quality, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Finance to ensure timely execution of objectives.
• Follow up on action items and drive plant-wide accountability.
• Facilitate implementation of new processes, materials, and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Provide clear communication and conflict resolution across shifts while reinforcing a positive, change-ready culture.
• Coach and develop Value Stream Managers and support teams for optimal performance.
• Ensure compliance with ISO, OSHA, and company standards.

What This Job Offers

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