Production Manager

Company Description Academia Furniture is a U.S.

-based manufacturer dedicated to beautifully designed, comfortable, and collaborative classroom furniture created with students in mind. The company focuses on innovative products that balance design, safety, utility, comfort, stability, and durability. Academia Furniture emphasizes relationship-based service, aiming to exceed expectations by responding promptly and reliably to customer needs. With a philosophy of delivering what is promised, when it is promised, at a competitive price, the company serves prestigious public schools as well as new charter schools.

Students, teachers, and administrators value the quality, versatility, and wide range of colors, shapes, sizes, and configurations available.

Role Description The Production Manager is a full-time, on-site role based in Bergen County, NJ, responsible for overseeing day-to-day manufacturing operations for classroom furniture. This role coordinates production schedules, supervises shop floor teams, and ensures products meet quality, safety, and design specifications. The Production Manager monitors inventory levels, manages workflow, and collaborates with purchasing, engineering, and logistics to maintain on-time delivery and cost efficiency.

They analyze production data to improve processes, reduce waste, and optimize equipment utilization, while enforcing safety standards and compliance with company policies. The role also involves training team members, resolving operational issues, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives aligned with Academia Furniture’s commitment to reliability and customer satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in production management, manufacturing operations, or plant supervision in a furniture, woodworking, or related environment.
• Skills in scheduling, capacity planning, and workflow optimization to ensure on-time, cost-effective production.
• Knowledge of quality control methods, safety standards, and compliance practices relevant to manufacturing.
• Ability to lead, coach, and motivate production teams, with strong communication and conflict-resolution skills.
• Analytical skills for interpreting production data, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing process improvements.
• Comfort with using production management software, ERP systems, and basic MS Office tools.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; an associate or bachelor’s degree in operations, industrial engineering, business, or a related field is a plus.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, move materials as needed, and work safely in a factory setting.