Manufacturing Operations Manager; Path to Plant Manager

Aplin has partnered with a leading manufacturer of material handling equipment and machines to recruit a hands‑on Manufacturing Operations Manager
. This role is ideal for a high‑potential production leader ready to expand into broader plant leadership while contributing to modernization initiatives, including Industry 4.0 advancements.

The Opportunity:

Reporting to the President and Executive Committee, the Manufacturing Operations Manager will lead day‑to‑day production execution and continuous improvement across the plant—driving safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and operational modernization.

This role includes exposure to Industry 4.0 initiatives such as data‑driven production monitoring, process digitization, and continuous improvement through automation and smart manufacturing tools.

The position offers a clear development path to Plant Manager based on performance and business growth.

• Lead daily production execution to achieve safety, quality, schedule, and delivery targets
• Coach and develop front‑line leaders and teams; support hiring, training, and performance management
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean fundamentals (5S, visual management, standard work, waste reduction)
• Support and participate in Industry 4.0 initiatives including:
  • Implementation of production data tracking systems
  • Use of KPI dashboards and digital performance metrics
  • Process automation improvements
  • ERP/MRP system optimization
• Coordinate production planning with internal stakeholders to align capacity, labor, and priorities
• Partner with Maintenance to prioritize downtime issues and support preventive maintenance planning
• Track and improve operational KPIs (scrap, rework, downtime, OTD, labor efficiency) and implement corrective actions
• Support modernization of manufacturing processes through practical automation and workflow enhancements
• Ensure adherence to health & safety requirements and support JHSC initiatives
• Maintain accurate operational documentation and contribute to basic cost control and budgeting efforts

• 5–8+ years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment (Supervisor, Production Manager, Value Stream Manager, etc.)
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams in a hands‑on, shop‑floor environment
• Working knowledge of Lean / Continuous Improvement methodologies
• Exposure to Industry 4.0 concepts such as:
  • Production data analytics
  • Smart manufacturing systems
  • Automation integration
  • ERP/MRP systems
• Experience working in structured environments; union exposure is an asset
• Familiarity with machining/CNC environments is an asset
• Diploma/degree preferred; equivalent experience considered

At Aplin — together with our brands Compu Staff and Impact Recruitment — we connect great people with great organizations across North America. We believe diverse teams build stronger companies, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We use AI tools to assist in a fair and efficient matching process, helping our recruiters connect the right people with the right opportunities.

To be considered, applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada, including holding any required permits. Our recruitment services are always free for job seekers.