Production Manager

We are working with an established manufacturer in LaSalle County that is looking to hire an experienced Production Manager to lead approximately 60 employees.

This is a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing operation with a large number of components moving through preprocessing, fabrication, welding, and final assembly. We are looking for someone who has managed a similar manufacturing environment and understands the challenges that come with building complex equipment rather than running a repetitive, high-volume production line.

The Production Manager will be responsible for the overall performance of the production team, including safety, quality, productivity, staffing, output, and continuous improvement.

• Lead approximately 60 production employees across preprocessing, fabrication, welding, and assembly
• Manage and develop supervisors, team leaders, and production employees
• Monitor safety, quality, productivity, labor efficiency, and production output
• Identify bottlenecks and production issues and implement corrective actions
• Lead Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives
• Improve production flow, standard work, and workplace organization
• Use 5S, OEE, FMEA, KPIs, and root‑cause analysis to improve manufacturing performance
• Work closely with Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain to resolve production issues
• Support new product introductions and manufacturing improvement projects
• Maintain a strong presence on the production floor and work directly with supervisors and employees

• Several years of production or manufacturing leadership experience
• Experience working in a high‑mix, low‑volume manufacturing environment
• Experience with welding, metal fabrication, and assembly operations
• 3+ years of Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience
• Experience leading and developing production supervisors and hourly employees
• Strong understanding of 5S, OEE, FMEA, KPIs, and root‑cause analysis
• Track record of improving productivity, quality, throughput, or production flow
• Strong problem‑solving and communication skills
• Hands‑on leadership style with a willingness to spend significant time on the production floor
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, Operations, or a related field preferred

Candidates coming from industrial equipment, heavy machinery, material handling equipment, specialty vehicles, construction or agricultural equipment, trailers, engineered metal products, or other complex fabricated products would be especially relevant.

Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.

• 401(k) employer contribution
• medical, dental and vision insurance
• paid vacation and personal days
• training and development opportunities