Operations Development Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Amsted Rail is seeking dynamic and results-driven talent to lead strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and drive continuous improvement across our manufacturing sites. This role is ideal for a motivated leader with a passion for process optimization, cross-functional collaboration, and operational excellence. The individual must be willing and able to relocate to any of our ten plants across North America, located in Columbus, OH, Hammond, IN, Greenville, SC, Camp Hill, PA, Anmoore, WV, Kansas City, KS, Keokuk, IA, Petersburg, VA, as well as Winnipeg, MB Canada.

What you will do:

• Manage daily manufacturing operations for efficient production which may include off shifts.
• Build foundational technical and leadership skills for future roles.
• Enhance productivity, minimize downtime, reduce production costs, and ensure compliance with industry regulations and product quality requirements.
• Monitor and maintain inventory levels to meet production demands.
• Plan, organize the manufacturing facility, with optimum cost effectiveness to ensure the timely production.
• Gain deep understanding of equipment maintenance, buildings and facilities to ensure operating efficiency and preserve the assets.
• Work cross-functionally learning the process, jobs, and networking with leadership.
• Collaborate with engineering, logistics, and quality teams to streamline workflows.
• Be a leader in the creation of an interdependent safety culture where employees share vision, trust, and collaboration on safety; accidents are eliminated by continuous improvement; and employees follow rules and procedures because they care about their colleagues.
• Identify opportunities and drive the implementation of process improvements.
• Collaborate with procurement and sourcing teams to manage relationships with suppliers and vendors.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging innovation and efficiency throughout the manufacturing process.
• Collaborate with internal Environmental experts to ensure facilities are in compliance with State and Federal regulations.

Focus Areas:

• Manufacturing
• Front-Line Operations
• Engineering
• Supply Chain
• Procurement
• Quality
• Environmental, Health, and Safety

Your background:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain or a related field.
• 5 + years of manufacturing experience, knowledge of melting, grinding, heat treat, and the ability to learn and pick up technical information quickly.
• Background in manufacturing, preferably within Automotive industry.
• Proven track record of execution and ability to create an execution culture.
• Strong leadership skills to inspire and guide teams toward achieving common goals.
• Change management, specifically the ability to influence and promote cultural change.
• Able to sustain improvement initiatives across the organization.
• Experience troubleshooting and finding multiple solutions to a complex problem.
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Must be able to interrelate well with personnel at all levels and possess good oral and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical/statistical problem-solving skills.
• Must be willing and able to relocate to any of our 10 plant locations.

What we offer you:

• Autonomy to be the leader and expert in a role that will impact the success of our global business, while helping leaders and employees reach new levels of growth and capabilities.
• We offer various programs and opportunities to help you advance your career and reach your goals.
• Highly competitive compensation and benefits package that only begins with a strong base salary commensurate with skills and abilities, but includes annual incentive opportunities, participation in our Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP), 401k match contributions, and a comprehensive benefits package.
• Investment into your own personal and professional development to ensure you remain at the top of your field and can reach your goals.
• Being a part of team who cares about YOU – the professional and the person.

Amsted Rail is an Equal Opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

To review our EEO Policies or to request assistance please go to www.amstedrail.com/careers/ and select EEO Compliance/Statements. To learn more about us, please visit us online at www.amstedrail.com. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities and any other basis covered by federal, state, or local law.