Production Manager - Nonwoven Manufacturing
Greater Hickory Area$80,000-$90,000 *flex to go up depending on expWe are partnering with a well-established manufacturing organization seeking an experienced Production Manager to lead day-to-day production operations within a fast-paced industrial manufacturing environment.This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for driving production performance, employee engagement, safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives across a multi-shift operation.Responsibilities:
- Lead daily production activities to ensure safety, quality, delivery, and productivity goals are achieved
- Manage staffing, scheduling, labor utilization, and workforce development
- Partner with maintenance and quality teams to minimize downtime and improve operational performance
- Monitor KPIs and production metrics to identify opportunities for improvement
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, waste reduction, and throughput
- Coach, mentor, and develop supervisors and production employees
- Maintain a strong culture of accountability, teamwork, and safety
Qualifications:
- 5+ years direct experience within nonwoven manufacturing, engineered materials, filtration products, specialty materials, converting, or similar production environments
- Experience leading production teams in a manufacturing environment
- Strong background in production planning, scheduling, staffing, and performance management
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, or operational excellence initiatives
- Proven ability to lead teams and improve production performance
- Strong communication and leadership skills
Highly Preferred
- Experience leading multi-shift manufacturing operations
- Strong understanding of production flow, quality systems, process improvement, and equipment reliability
