Production Manafer

Haldren Group • Fort Worth, TX

17d • $95,000 - $110,000 • Onsite

About The Position

We are establishing our first company-operated production facility for our growing commercial linear lighting business. We are looking for a Production Manager who can build the manufacturing operation from its earliest stage and guide it into full production. This is not an established plant with an existing workforce, inherited procedures, or a finished operating model. You will help create the facility from the ground up, influencing equipment selection, production layout, operating practices, and the structure of the team. The position requires a practical leader who is willing to work directly within the operation. During the launch phase, you may personally assist with fabrication, resolve equipment problems, complete electrical product work, or handle other duties needed to keep the facility moving forward. You will report directly to the President during the initial setup and launch period. Once a VP of Manufacturing joins the company, the reporting line will transition to that position. As the facility develops, your responsibilities will grow alongside the production operation and its workforce. This opportunity is intended for someone who has previously helped launch or transition a manufacturing facility. The right person will be comfortable developing operational plans, making technical decisions, and completing hands-on work whenever required.

Requirements

• Five or more years of experience in manufacturing operations, plant development, engineering leadership, or a related environment.
• Experience launching or transitioning a manufacturing facility from its initial development through full-rate production.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects where requirements and priorities may change.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, operational excellence, and continuous improvement principles.
• Experience using ERP platforms and managing production schedules, inventory, and quality management systems.
• Strong mechanical ability and a willingness to personally undertake technical and practical work.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related discipline, or equivalent hands-on professional experience.
• Ability to work independently, take ownership, and complete assignments with limited supervision.
• Strong communication, organisation, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
• Willingness and ability to travel for approximately 25% of the role.
• Ability to pass all required pre-employment checks, including background, drug and alcohol, and driving record screening.

Nice To Haves

• Ten or more years of relevant manufacturing, engineering, or operational experience.
• Previous experience in LED, electronics, or light-assembly manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the complete installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting of production machinery and equipment.
• Establish safety, quality, and regulatory compliance requirements before production activities begin.
• Manage the design, planning, layout, and physical development of the new manufacturing facility.
• Develop practical operating plans that support the company’s wider business strategy and production objectives.
• Coordinate the movement of production activities from the existing contract manufacturing provider into the new facility.
• Establish Lean manufacturing practices and embed them across the plant’s daily operations.
• Improve production output, quality standards, operating efficiency, and overall manufacturing performance.
• Contribute to process improvement, manufacturability, and transfer-of-work projects.
• Determine and organise staffing requirements according to present workloads and future order growth.
• Hire, train, and establish the facility’s production and operational support workforce.
• Support team members through coaching, guidance, and ongoing development as the plant expands.
• Create a working environment that promotes safety, personal accountability, and continuous learning.
• Complete practical duties when required, including light fabrication, product electrical work, equipment repairs, local deliveries, and administrative support.
• Provide flexible assistance across the facility until the operation has a complete and established team.
• Prepare and maintain operational records, performance documentation, and KPI reports.
• Keep executive leadership informed of facility progress, emerging risks, operational challenges, and improvement opportunities.
• Serve as the central communication point between the manufacturing facility and the executive leadership team.

Benefits

• Base Salary: $95,000 to $110,000 per year, based on experience
• 401(k) retirement plan with a company contribution match of up to 4%.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, with the company covering 50% of the premium.
• Unlimited paid time off.

What This Job Offers

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