Site Operations Leader

Job Summary

Serve as the site leader and provide leadership and direction for the facility’s manufacturing and support teams for efficient and safe manufacture of assigned products and accessories. Set short- and long-term expectations for the team and ensure accountability for results.

Establish and manage budgets, KPIs, and operational metrics to track performance and identify improvement areas. Work closely with finance teams to align cost management, capital expenditures, and P&L accountability. Forecast performance and explain variances from plan.

Ensure the site operates cost effectively within customer product expectations, site operating procedures, and quality standards while providing leadership, guidance, and direction in the application of LEAN manufacturing and the continual improvement of operations.

Drive continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, etc.) to enhance productivity. Maintain proper level of manufacturing staffing, keeping direct labor utilization high and initiating cross training, outsourcing, work sharing, or overtime as needed.

Establish a culture of accountability, collaboration, and operational excellence where team members are safe, well, and fulfilled. Maintain positive morale, show empathy for team members, administer policy fairly, and resolve issues quickly.

Ensure that team members have what they need to succeed, including tools, raw material, and engineering support. Recruit and develop talent by providing positive feedback and constructive criticism, formally and informally. Communicate and support company positions and decisions to team members.

Identify systemic issues and new business challenges early and work with leadership team to resolve and mitigate risks. Work closely with Global Safety Leader and EVP to develop, implement, and promote site level safety procedures and protocols.

Collaborate with the VP of Continuous Improvement to help promote continuous improvement objectives throughout Afinitas. Manage inventory to optimize cost and high customer service levels. Collaborate with sales and engineering on product delivery, risk management, and manufacturing cost estimates.

Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations issued by relevant regulatory agencies.

• Lead manufacturing and support teams to achieve performance goals.
• Manage budgets, KPIs, and operational metrics.
• Implement LEAN manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain staffing levels and workforce cross‑training.
• Foster a culture of safety, morale, and accountability.
• Recruit, develop, and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Collaborate with safety leadership to enforce site safety procedures.
• Partner with continuous improvement leaders to promote best practices.
• Optimize inventory for cost and service levels.
• Ensure compliance with laws and regulations.

• 5+ years of experience successfully managing a manufacturing facility or similar environment.
• Demonstrated ability to provide strategic direction, lead large teams, develop team members, and inspire the team to achieve key goals in a timely and cost-effective manner.
• Strong knowledge of production management in the steel fabrication industry or equivalent including welding, large machine operations, inventory management, and fulfillment processes.
• Demonstrated success applying LEAN manufacturing principles.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to present oneself professionally and courteously at all levels.
• High Emotional Intelligence and strong interpersonal skills for building and growing internal and external relationships.
• Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and adapt to shifting priorities.
• Understanding of operational finance, particularly fixed vs. variable costs and overhead absorption.
• Experience with industry software such as MS Office Suite, Salesforce, Infor ERP, or similar.

Works in a plant/manufacturing environment that involves the use of industrial machinery and chemicals. The employee must be able to correctly wear and use any Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required at the location.

The approximate pay range for this position is $130,000 to $160,000 annually. Please note that the pay range is a good‑faith estimate at the time of posting and may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, and geographic location.

Our complete benefits package includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• 401(k) plan with company match

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V. This organization uses E-Verify. Applicants may be subject to pre‑employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.