Production Manager

American Leather Operations LLC•Conover, NC

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Production Manager oversees daily operations of the Spring Up & Spraying departments, leading and developing an hourly workforce to meet production, quality, and safety expectations. This role manages staffing and workflow, promotes Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement, and coordinates with downstream upholstery teams. Responsibilities include ensuring frames are properly finished, stained, or sealed and spring systems—including traditional eight-way hand-tied and sinuous wire construction—meet specifications for comfort, durability, and quality.

Requirements

At least three years of supervisory or management experience in furniture manufacturing, with experience in spring-up and/or frame spraying and finishing
Knowledge of spring-up construction, finishing methods, materials, equipment, and quality standards
Understanding of production planning, staffing, scheduling, and workflow coordination
Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement practices
Ability to lead, train, coach, and develop hourly employees and hold teams accountable for performance
Ability to identify production and quality issues, make timely decisions, and implement corrective actions
Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with employees, managers, and supporting departments
Ability to prioritize work and adjust staffing and production plans as needs change
Proficiency with computer systems used for production reporting, timekeeping, email, and spreadsheets
Ability to analyze information and determine how information relates to the company’s strategic plan
Above average computer skills

Responsibilities

Lead daily production huddles and apply Lean Manufacturing to improve workflow, reduce material waste, and resolve bottlenecks between Frame Spray and Spring Up
Develop, maintain, and review standard operating procedures to support consistent production methods and quality
Monitor production, quality, and safety metrics and use visual management tools to identify and address areas needing improvement
Manage staffing, work assignments, employee hours, and overtime to meet production needs
Train, coach, and cross-train employees in frame spraying and spring-up methods to support quality, productivity, and balanced workloads
Set clear performance expectations and address performance and attendance concerns in coordination with HR
Coordinate with the Frame Shop and Upholstery departments to maintain a steady flow of work and resolve production issues
Oversee the application of stains, sealers, topcoats, and specialty finishes to ensure consistent color matching and surfaces that meet quality standards
Ensure preventive maintenance of spray booths, guns, pumps, and ventilation systems in coordination with Maintenance
Work with EHS to ensure required procedures are followed for chemical storage, personal protective equipment (PPE), and hazardous waste disposal
Inspect spring-up work to ensure taut webbing, securely fastened coil or zig-zag springs, and properly executed eight-way hand ties
Verify that foundations meet the comfort profile, dimensions, and construction specifications listed on the production ticket
Ensure required inspections are completed in Frame Spray and Spring Up and defects are addressed before products move to the next department
Maintain LEE’s workmanship standards for spring placement, tying methods, and knot integrity
Verify that frames, foundations, and custom modifications match the production ticket and meet applicable pre-upholstery inspection requirements
Ensure approved materials and finishes are handled and applied according to LEE’s quality and environmental standards