Operations Manager

Our firm is partnering with a growing manufacturer and distributor of LED lighting solutions to identify an experienced Operations Manager. This role reports directly to the CEO and is responsible for leading day‑to‑day operations across production, warehouse, and fulfillment functions. The Operations Manager plays a critical role in ensuring orders are shipped accurately, on time, and at optimal cost while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and employee engagement.

Title: Operations Manager

Location: St. Cloud, MN

Job Type: Permanent

Compensation: $100,000–$125,000

Industry: Manufacturing

The Operations Manager oversees the daily operations of the production and fulfillment facility, coordinating and directing all activities related to production, inventory, and shipping. This role establishes and maintains production and quality standards while optimizing the use of people, processes, equipment, and systems. Key objectives include increasing throughput and speed to ship, minimizing labor costs relative to net sales while maintaining low turnover, and reducing quality errors across all orders.

The Operations Manager leads and develops production staff, ensures compliance with company and regulatory requirements, and partners cross‑functionally to achieve operational and financial goals.

• Lead hiring, onboarding, training, performance management, and disciplinary processes for on‑site production and warehouse employees
• Plan and manage staffing, materials, subcontracting needs, and facility and equipment costs
• Evaluate and continually improve manpower utilization, workflows, and operating procedures
• Define roles, responsibilities, and organizational structure to support business objectives
• Analyze production and fulfillment data to optimize facility layout, equipment usage, systems, and processes
• Ensure all production employees are properly trained and qualified for their roles
• Collaborate with other departments to support cross‑functional operational and financial objectives
• Identify and implement cost‑saving initiatives and process improvements that enhance delivery performance
• Lead safety initiatives, address unsafe conditions, and oversee safety committee activities
• Ensure production budgets, financial targets, and operational metrics are achieved
• Foster a positive, ethical, and inclusive work environment that supports engagement and retention
• Direct capital expenditures and asset placement initiatives
• Oversee production supervisors and staff in daily operations
• Ensure compliance with company policies, customer requirements, and applicable government regulations

• 5+ years of operations or production management experience
• Experience in an inventory‑oriented environment involving light assembly, light manufacturing, and/or distribution
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence, motivate, and develop teams
• Proven ability to analyze data, solve problems, plan effectively, and organize complex operations
• Proficiency with spreadsheet software, particularly Microsoft Excel, and working knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Experience working with ERP and warehouse management systems (WMS)
• Demonstrated success leading sustainable operational improvement initiatives with measurable financial impact

• Bachelor’s degree in operations management, supply chain, or a related field
• Professional certifications related to operations, manufacturing, or supply chain management
• Experience working in organizations that emphasize accountability, continuous improvement, and structured operating systems

We offer a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a performance‑based bonus tied to results. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance available beginning the first of the month following your start date, a health savings account (HSA) with company match, paid time off, paid holidays, and a 401(k) retirement plan with up to a 4% company match.

We are an equal‑opportunity employer.