Operations Leader

Operations Specialist

Operations Specialist at Appvion.

Location:

Appleton, WI

Your Impact

The Operations Specialist is responsible for overseeing all operations in our 16/18 building. The role has a strong focus on SQDCP and team leadership. This position leads cross‑functional initiatives and supports the coordination of daily activities to ensure timely and efficient production, while fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Directly supervise hourly team members in the 16/18 Building (coating and rewinding) while providing coaching, training, and team development.
• Lead conflict resolution and address team performance issues in alignment with company policy.
• Promote the company culture of safety, honesty, integrity, engagement, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct regular team meetings, crew huddles, and performance check‑ins.
• Participate in interviewing and onboarding new team members.
• Serve as Emergency Response Team member and safety point of contact.

What It Takes

• Bachelor’s Degree in Operations Management, Business Administration, International Business, or related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
• 3–5 years of manufacturing experience, preferably in a leadership role within a chemical or paper converting environment.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Proven ability to lead teams through change and drive accountability.
• Excellent critical thinking, decision‑making, and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across departments in a fast‑paced environment.
• Knowledge of chemical use and handling strongly preferred.

What We Can Offer You

• Competitive medical, dental, life, AD&D, and vision insurance plans.
• 24/7 onsite fitness center, free of charge.
• Generous annual time off allotment, including vacation (based on company service), parental leave, paid volunteer time, sick or emergency time, and 12 holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement (up to $5,250 per year), scholarships for dependents, monthly cell phone reimbursement (professional positions), and annual steel toe and prescription safety glasses reimbursement.
• 401(k), Health Savings Account Plan (HSA), Employee Assistance Program (available to employees and their families), annual bonus program, referral bonus program (up to $1,750), STD, LTD, and much more.

The Fine Print

A post‑offer background check and drug screen is required.

Appvion provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact human resources at