Lean Manager Jobs in Athens, AL (NOW HIRING)

Join a high-performing team that is going for a home run!

Copperweld is looking for a driven, dedicated Production Manager to oversee daily manufacturing operations and lead a high-performing production team. In this key leadership role, you’ll be responsible for ensuring production goals are met safely, efficiently, and with consistent quality—while fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and operational excellence. You’ll work closely with cross-functional teams to turn strategic plans into action on the shop floor and ensure Copperweld’s products are delivered on time, every time.

WHAT we need you to do.

• Direct all aspects of production activities to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Supervise and support shift supervisors, team leads, and hourly operators to ensure efficient execution of production plans.
• Monitor and drive daily performance metrics including throughput, downtime, labor utilization, scrap, and yield.
• Partner with planning, materials, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams to ensure seamless coordination across the plant.
• Identify and address production bottlenecks, resource constraints, or process inefficiencies to keep lines running smoothly.
• Champion safety and compliance, ensuring all activities are conducted in accordance with regulatory standards and company policies.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste, improve process capability, and enhance productivity.
• Provide coaching and development for production teams, promoting a high-performance and growth-minded culture.
• Manage headcount and labor planning in alignment with production schedules and budget targets.
• Collaborate with quality to ensure product specifications and standards are consistently met.
• Drive adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices across all workstations.
• Support implementation of lean manufacturing tools and practices on the production floor.
• Maintain accurate production reports, daily dashboards, and key performance indicator (KPI) tracking.
• Assist in capacity planning, capital equipment assessments, and plant layout improvements.
• Communicate clearly and regularly with plant leadership on production status, issues, and improvement opportunities.
• Other job duties as assigned.

WHAT you need to possess.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field preferred (or equivalent hands-on experience).
• 5–8 years of experience in production or manufacturing operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Proven track record of leading teams in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing principles, production processes, and operational best practices.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Ability to interpret and act on production data, schedules, and performance reports.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Experience in the wire & cable, metals, or industrial manufacturing sector is a plus.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Willingness to work flexible hours or shifts as needed to support production needs.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. 
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times. 

WHY Copperweld?

• STRONG Business Outlook
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans
• PAID Time off & 10 Holidays
• 401k matching
• Company Paid Life & AD&D Insurance
• Education Assistance
• Great Place to Work Certified

Copperweld is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Successful candidates will be required to successfully pass drug screening and background checks.