Operations Manager

Job Requirements Why work for us?

Alkegen brings together two of the world’s leading specialty materials companies to create one new, innovation-driven leader focused on battery technologies, filtration media, and specialty insulation and sealing materials. Through global reach and breakthrough inventions, we’re delivering products that enable the world to breathe easier, live greener, and go further than ever before. With over 60 manufacturing facilities with a global workforce of over 9,000 of the industry’s most experienced talent, including insulation and filtration experts, Alkegen is uniquely positioned to help customers impact the environment in meaningful ways.

Alkegen offers a range of dynamic career opportunities with globe-spanning reach. From production operators to engineers, technicians to specialists, sales to leadership, we’re always looking for top talent ready to bring their best.  Come grow with us! Operations Manager Position Summary The Operations Manager is responsible for leading daily plant operations in a high-volume Tier 1/Tier 2 automotive manufacturing environment. This role drives operational excellence across production, quality, safety, cost, and delivery performance, while supporting strategic initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.

The position serves as the Plant Manager’s key operational partner and acts as the primary leader for manufacturing execution, workforce management, and lean transformation.

Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations, ensuring achievement of safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDIPC) targets

Lead production, maintenance, logistics, and engineering functions to ensure seamless plant performance

Drive adherence to production schedules and customer delivery requirements

Act as Plant Manager in their absence

Continuous Improvement & Lean Manufacturing Champion Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and CI initiatives (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, standard work)
Identify and execute productivity improvements, waste reduction, and cost-saving initiatives

Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for operational issues

Establish a culture of accountability and continuous improvement

Quality & Customer Performance Ensure compliance with IATF 16949 / ISO quality standards

Drive internal and external quality performance, including PPM reduction and customer satisfaction

Partner with quality teams on audits, containment, and corrective actions

Support APQP, PPAP, and launch activities

Safety & Compliance Promote a zero-incident safety culture and ensure compliance with all Federal, State, Local, and Company HSEQ regulations.

Lead safety programs, audits, and corrective actions

Ensure environmental and regulatory compliance

Maintain Alkegen's highest level of safety standards on site including identifying and correcting unsafe conditions and unsafe acts. Will embody Alkegen's core safety principles including but not limited to The Seven Safety Absolutes, use of PPE, and Safe Standards of Work at all times.

Team Leadership & Development Lead, coach, and develop a team of supervisors, managers, and department leaders

Drive employee engagement, accountability, and performance management

Support workforce planning, training, and succession planning

Conduct monthly one-on-one coaching sessions with direct reports and complete annual performance appraisals

Foster a positive labor relations environment (union experience)
Financial & Business Performance Manage plant operating budgets and drive cost control initiatives

Analyze KPIs and financial metrics to improve plant profitability

Support capital investment planning and execution

Optimize labor efficiency and resource utilization

New Program Launch & Engineering Support…