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Manufacturing Leader Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Howmet

Manufacturing Leader - Plant 10

Whitehall, MI · On-site

High school diploma or GED from an accredited institution * 3+ years of experience in manufacturing * 3+ years of leadership experience * Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United ...

Dupont

Manufacturing Domain Leader

Midland, MI

We are seeking a visionary Manufacturing Domain Leader to shape and accelerate our global manufacturing excellence strategy. This is a highly visible leadership role that will influence operations ...

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Manufacturing Leader information

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$15

$28

$52

How much do manufacturing leader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing leader in Michigan is $28.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $33.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills do you need to be a manufacturing manager?

A manufacturing manager needs strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills to oversee production processes effectively. Technical knowledge of manufacturing systems, quality control, and safety regulations is essential, along with proficiency in management tools like ERP software. Additionally, a background in engineering or operations management and relevant certifications can enhance job performance.

What are 5 careers in manufacturing?

Five common careers in manufacturing include production supervisor, quality control inspector, manufacturing engineer, maintenance technician, and supply chain coordinator. These roles often require technical skills, familiarity with manufacturing tools and processes, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA or Six Sigma. They involve working in factory environments to ensure efficient and safe production operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Manufacturing Leaders, and how can they effectively address them?

Manufacturing Leaders often face challenges such as managing production schedules, ensuring product quality, and balancing cost efficiency with safety standards. They must also navigate workforce management, including motivating teams and handling skill gaps or turnover. Effective leaders address these challenges by fostering clear communication, implementing continuous improvement initiatives, and leveraging data to make informed decisions. Building strong relationships with cross-functional teams, such as engineering and quality assurance, is essential for creating a collaborative environment and driving operational success.

What are Manufacturing Leaders?

Manufacturing Leaders are professionals responsible for overseeing and managing production processes in a manufacturing environment. They ensure that manufacturing operations run smoothly, efficiently, and safely while meeting quality standards and production targets. Their duties include supervising staff, implementing process improvements, managing resources, and maintaining compliance with safety regulations. Manufacturing Leaders play a crucial role in optimizing productivity and supporting the overall success of manufacturing organizations.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Leader vs Manufacturing Supervisor?

AspectManufacturing LeaderManufacturing Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple production teams, develops strategies, and ensures overall manufacturing goals are met.Manages daily operations of a specific production line or team, focusing on task execution and team supervision.
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering, manufacturing, or related fields; leadership experience.Often requires a high school diploma or associate degree; experience in manufacturing environments.
Work EnvironmentStrategic, cross-team coordination, higher-level planning.Hands-on supervision, direct team management, shift-based work.
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing companies for leadership roles.Used across manufacturing plants for frontline management.

The Manufacturing Leader focuses on strategic oversight and cross-team coordination, while the Manufacturing Supervisor handles daily team management and operational tasks. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, but they differ in scope, responsibilities, and required credentials.

What is the highest paying job in manufacturing?

The highest paying jobs in manufacturing are often executive roles such as Manufacturing Vice President or Chief Manufacturing Officer, which can earn six-figure salaries. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of production processes and supply chain management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Manufacturing Leader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Leader, you need a strong background in production processes, lean manufacturing principles, and operational management, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with ERP systems, Six Sigma or Lean certifications, and manufacturing automation tools is typically required. Outstanding leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help motivate teams and drive continuous improvement. These competencies are essential for ensuring efficient operations, product quality, and a safe, productive work environment.

What are the top 5 positions in a company?

In a manufacturing company, top positions often include the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), Plant Manager, Production Manager, and Quality Control Manager. These roles oversee strategic planning, daily operations, production processes, and quality assurance, requiring leadership skills and industry knowledge.
What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Leader jobs in Michigan? For Manufacturing Leader jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Leader jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Leader jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Leader jobs in MI? For Manufacturing Leader jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Manufacturing Leader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Leader job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,195 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Manufacturing Leader

Infinity Staffing Professionals

Whitehall, MI

$85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Manufacturing Leader

Responsibilities
The Manufacturing Leader is responsible for driving operational excellence, strengthening workforce capability, and improving production effectiveness across all manufacturing functions. This role develops and implements improved methods, processes, and procedures that enhance safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance. The leader plays a pivotal role in employee engagement, continuous improvement deployment, cross-shift alignment, and systemic operational discipline.
This position supports organizational goals through structured planning, proactive problem-solving, and strong partnership with operations, engineering, maintenance, quality, and other key stakeholders.

Compensation and Benefits
  • Starting pay: $85,000+ annually
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) savings plan with employer match
  • Paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave
  • Life insurance and employee assistance programs
  • Leadership development and continuous improvement training

Job Roles
  • Systems thinking – Understands operations holistically; breaks down silos across shifts and departments; recognizes the impact of each function on the whole.
  • Measurement oriented – Uses safety, quality, labor utilization, and other core metrics to drive decision-making and organizational priorities.
  • Relationship builder – Strengthens trust and communication up, down, and across the organization; mentors others; resolves issues early through connection.
  • Facilitator – Removes obstacles, accelerates decision-making, and ensures quality execution; translates business needs into operational action.
  • Advocate – Ensures customer requirements are met; champions manufacturing needs; ensures frontline leaders have resources, clarity, and support.
  • Tactician strategist – Balances immediate operational demands with long-term improvements; plans proactively while responding effectively to changing conditions.
  • Organization and structure – Coordinates scheduling, labor, and priorities across multiple teams; ensures efficient workflow and alignment.
  • Autonomy – Operates with confidence and sound judgment; makes decisions with limited direction; accepts feedback and adjusts accordingly.

Primary Responsibilities
  • Lead and supervise a high-performing team, including scheduling, conducting meetings, administering performance reviews, and managing staffing levels.
  • Motivate, coach, and develop employees to achieve optimal productivity, quality, morale, and cooperation.
  • Provide timely and constructive performance feedback; maintain documentation for all disciplinary actions.
  • Direct training and orientation for employees to ensure understanding of safety rules, performance expectations, and organizational policies.
  • Maintain compliance with collective bargaining agreements; act as liaison between leadership and union officials; resolve grievances where required.
  • Review production and operating reports to resolve manufacturing, quality, and maintenance issues, minimizing cost and preventing delays.
  • Investigate and analyze issues, recommending corrective actions that impact quality, cost, throughput, and safety.
  • Ensure proper tools, equipment, and supplies are available; promote understanding and utilization of the help chain.
  • Partner with management, engineering, and quality teams to resolve process, equipment, and operational issues.
  • Evaluate work procedures for safety compliance; promote and uphold a safe work environment.
  • Plan, develop, and implement improved manufacturing methods that optimize labor, materials, and operating expense.
  • Participate in safety inspections and housekeeping audits to support a clean, safe, and organized facility.
  • Comply with all environmental, health, and safety requirements.
  • Perform additional duties as needed to support operational success.

Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED from an accredited institution
  • 5+ years of experience working in a manufacturing environment OR 1+ year of internal supervisory/leadership experience
  • 5+ years of supervisory or managerial experience
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States (no visa sponsorship available)

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Business
  • Experience in investment casting or highly technical manufacturing
  • Strong communication and presentation skills
  • Proven leadership capabilities that foster engagement and accountability
  • Experience applying lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, total quality, and 6S methodologies
  • Technical understanding of manufacturing processes
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, interpersonal, organizational, and negotiation skills
  • Solid financial literacy and understanding of cost drivers