Production Work Jobs in Kankakee, IL (NOW HIRING)

JOB PURPOSE

Responsible for leading production operations across one or more manufacturing departments to achieve safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity objectives. This role provides leadership to the production supervisory team, ensures alignment of resources and operational priorities, and drives continuous improvement to support business and customer requirements.

JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Production Operations Management (30%):
   Lead production operations across assigned manufacturing departments to achieve safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and customer service objectives.
2. Workforce Leadership & Department Performance (25%):
   Direct the performance of production supervisors and departmental teams to ensure effective workforce utilization, operational execution, and achievement of departmental goals.
3. Operational Planning & Resource Management (20%):
   Manage labor, equipment, materials, and production resources to support manufacturing requirements, balanced workflow, and efficient utilization of departmental capacity.
4. Safety, Quality & Regulatory Compliance (15%):
   Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, quality requirements, and applicable regulatory obligations while maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
5. Continuous Improvement & Cost Performance (10%):
   Drive operational improvement initiatives that enhance productivity, reduce waste, improve operational efficiency, and support achievement of cost objectives.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES (IF APPLICABLE)

1. Accountable for team performance and development
2. Leads hiring decisions, succession planning, and talent development initiatives
3. Establishes performance expectations and accountability standards
4. Drives employee engagement and retention strategies
5. Owns execution of departmental goals and aligns team objectives with company strategy
6. Develops and manages budgets, resources, and operational plans
7. Drives cross-functional process improvement initiatives aligned with departmental goals
8. Analyzes operation and financial data to establish KPIs, track performance, and guide decision-making

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 7-10 years of experience in manufacturing, operations, or related role, including at least 2 years of experience in a supervisory role
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, operations management, business, or a related field required
• Experience leading production operations in an investment casting or related manufacturing environment strongly preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Thorough knowledge of manufacturing operations, production processes, and workflow management
• Thorough knowledge of safety, quality, and continuous improvement principles
• Working knowledge of labor planning, resource allocation, and production scheduling concepts
• Strong leadership, coaching, and employee development skills
• Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to analyze operational data and make sound business decisions
• Ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Primarily onsite in a manufacturing environment
• Frequent standing, walking, and movement throughout production areas
• Exposure to noise, heat, machinery, and industrial materials
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in designated production areas
• Frequent interaction with employees, supervisors, managers, and support functions
• May require schedule flexibility, including support for off-shift and weekend operations as business needs dictate

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. The company reserves the right to change job duties at any time.