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Operations Readiness Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Winlandfoods

Operations Readiness Manager

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

The Operations Readiness Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating all activities required to successfully transition new food products from development into full-scale manufacturing. This ...

Formic

Manufacturing Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Partner cross-functionally to align operational readiness with customer commitments and project timelines * Collaborate with Supply Chain and Fleet Operations teams to ensure proper inventory levels ...

STV

Senior Engineering Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$116K - $133K/yr

This highly consultative role partners directly with agency leadership to guide operational strategy, readiness, and implementation for new systems, service expansions, and complex transit programs.

Formic

Manufacturing Operations Manager

Chicago, IL

Partner cross-functionally to align operational readiness with customer commitments and project timelines * Collaborate with Supply Chain and Fleet Operations teams to ensure proper inventory levels ...

Formic

Manufacturing Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Partner cross-functionally to align operational readiness with customer commitments and project timelines * Collaborate with Supply Chain and Fleet Operations teams to ensure proper inventory levels ...

Formic

Manufacturing Operations Manager

Aurora, IL

Partner cross-functionally to align operational readiness with customer commitments and project timelines * Collaborate with Supply Chain and Fleet Operations teams to ensure proper inventory levels ...

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Operations Readiness information

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How much do operations readiness jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations readiness in Chicago, IL is $21.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is operations a high paying job?

Operations roles can offer competitive salaries, especially at senior levels or in specialized industries such as manufacturing, logistics, or technology. Compensation often depends on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the operations managed.

What does an operational readiness manager do?

An operations readiness manager oversees the preparation and implementation of processes, systems, and resources to ensure smooth operational startup and ongoing performance. They coordinate cross-functional teams, develop training programs, and utilize project management tools to minimize risks and ensure compliance with standards. This role often requires strong organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of industry regulations.

What is an operational readiness specialist?

An operational readiness specialist is responsible for ensuring that systems, processes, and personnel are prepared for new or ongoing operations. They assess risks, develop training programs, and coordinate testing to ensure smooth implementation and minimal disruption. This role often requires strong project management skills and familiarity with operational procedures and safety standards.

What is the difference between Operations Readiness vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectOperations ReadinessMaintenance Technician
Required CredentialsCertifications in safety, operations, and sometimes engineeringTechnical certifications, trade licenses, or vocational training
Work EnvironmentPre-commissioning, startup, and ongoing operational supportEquipment repair, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas, manufacturing, energy sectorsManufacturing plants, facilities, industrial sites
Common Search & ComparisonOperations Readiness vs Maintenance Technician

Operations Readiness focuses on preparing facilities for safe and efficient startup, including planning, testing, and commissioning. Maintenance Technicians handle ongoing equipment maintenance and repairs. While both roles require technical skills, Operations Readiness emphasizes project coordination and startup procedures, whereas Maintenance Technicians focus on equipment upkeep and troubleshooting.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Operations readiness roles such as senior operations managers, supply chain directors, and project executives can reach or exceed a $300,000 annual salary, especially with experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities. High-level executive positions in various industries also often pay this amount or more, depending on company size and performance.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations Readiness jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Operations Readiness jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Operations Readiness jobs near you
Operations Readiness Manager

Operations Readiness Manager

Winland Foods, Inc.

Oak Brook, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

Winland Foods rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

176th of 433 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

The Operations Readiness Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating all activities required to successfully transition new food products from development into full-scale manufacturing. This role acts as the bridge between R&D, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, and Commercial teams to ensure launches are on time, cost-effective, and meet quality standards. This individual will report to the PMO Director with dotted line reporting to the Operations Director.
Employee Type:
Full time
Location:
IL Oak Brook
Job Type:
Production Operations
Job Posting Title:
Operations Readiness Manager
Job Description:
Schedule: Hybrid office schedule with up to 60% + travel expectations
Work Location: 2015 Spring Road Suite 400, Oak Brook, IL 60523
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with match, STD/LTD/AD&D/Life, HSA, FSA, EAP, Hospital indemnity, Accident Insurance, Identity and Fraud Protection Plan, Legal, and Critical Illness.
Salary, based on experience and other qualifications: $93k - $140k annually with additional bonus potential
Position Responsibilities:
  • Lead complex, enterprise-wide projects through disciplined project management practices, overseeing detailed schedules, critical paths, deliverables, stakeholder communications, risk mitigation, and cross-functional alignment to achieve business objectives.
  • Lead cost and feasibility response for all new and reformulated products, as well as network moves. This involves coordination with R&D, Procurement, Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, Operations, and others.
  • Develop and manage detailed project timelines for new product introductions (NPIs) and network moves
  • Ensure all critical milestones are met (ingredient sourcing, packaging readiness, line trials, etc.)
  • Coordinate multiple simultaneous plant trials, scale-ups, and first production runs
  • Partner with plant teams to ensure materials, equipment, labor, and capacity are ready and available
  • Identify and mitigate production risks prior to launch
  • Ensure BOMs (Bill of Materials), routing, and specifications are accurate in systems
  • Ensure all products meet food safety, regulatory, and quality standards, as well as customer standards
  • Track and manage launch-related costs (waste, trial runs, overtime, etc.)
  • Identify opportunities to improve efficiency during scale-up
  • Support post-launch cost optimization efforts
  • Proactively identify risks to timelines, cost, or quality
  • Lead problem-solving efforts during trials and initial production
  • Escalate issues appropriately with recommended solutions

Qualifications and Requirements:
  • 3-7 years of experience in manufacturing, operations, or product commercialization
  • Bachelor's Degree in Project Management, Supply Chain, Business or related field is preferred
  • Knowledge of food manufacturing processes and plant operations is highly preferred
  • Experience with new product launches or plant trials preferred
  • Experience with ERP systems (SAP)
  • Experience with stage-gate or commercialization processes
  • Understanding of food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, FSMA)
  • PMP Certification is preferred
  • Lean / Six Sigma experience is a plus

EEO Statement:
Winland Foods seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool, and as a global company we believe our success is enhanced by fostering equity and inclusion in the workplace. Therefore, Winland Foods is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military or veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

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