Production Manager - Column Packing

Bring more to life. Are you ready to accelerate your potential and make a real difference within life sciences, diagnostics and biotechnology? At Phenomenex, one of Danaher’s operating companies, our work saves lives and we’re united by a shared commitment to innovate for tangible impact. Founded nearly 40 years ago, Phenomenex is a global technology leader that develops novel analytical chemistry solutions to solve the separation and purification challenges of researchers, ensuring the quality of essentials such as food, water, shampoo and cold medication.

Join our culture of belonging where your unique viewpoint matters and we harness Danaher’s system of continuous improvement to turn ideas into impact at the speed of life.

This position is located in Torrance, California, is on-site, and reports to the Director of Manufacturing & Distribution as part of the Manufacturing Production team.

• Oversee and optimize production processes; meet and exceed objectives for efficiency, throughput, and on‑time delivery. Track and publish metrics as required.
• Make decisions and recommendations about equipment use, maintenance, modification, and procurement.
• Create a positive work environment that motivates staff and recognizes contributions.
• Coordinate, set up, and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all production operations. Ensure adequate cross‑training and first‑pass quality results that meet or exceed objectives. Investigate and implement corrective actions within the CAPA system.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles. Develop programs to improve performance, efficiencies, and productivity for key metrics.
• Create and adjust production and staff schedules to meet objectives. Evaluate subordinates’ competencies and provide leadership and development. Review performance formally on an annual basis.
• Ensure adherence to all Phenomenex policies regarding Safety, Quality, EHS, and Time/Attendance. Work with HR and Safety to develop and implement programs to improve overall area safety.
• Partner with R&D and Marketing to transition new products to production. Perform analyses as needed (capacity, staffing, product costs, ROI) and present results to cross‑functional groups.

• Minimum 5+ years of manufacturing or industrial experience, preferably in chemical, biotechnology, aerospace, or automotive industry.
• At least 3+ years of experience in manufacturing management and 2+ years in people leadership.
• Bachelor’s degree required. Business administration/management, Engineering, or Chemistry preferred.
• Experience using ERP systems – Microsoft D365 or AX – preferred. Experience with Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement.
• Strong analytical thinking and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects. Demonstrated ability to lead personnel in a matrixed organization to meet production targets while prioritizing special projects.
• Ability to clearly and systematically write standard work and SOPs, manuals, etc.

• Occasional standing, walking, sitting, manual operation of tools, and climbing stairs.
• Ability to occasionally lift or move up to 25 pounds.

• Experience in lean manufacturing processes with exposure to Toyota Production Systems.
• In‑depth knowledge of quality principles and technical tools (root cause analysis, statistical tools, lean conversion, variation reduction, design for Six Sigma, control charts). Ability to take initiative and solve problems.
• Mechanical aptitude – able to work in operations cells and partner with production engineers to create tools, jigs, and fixtures to eliminate variation.

Phenomenex offers a broad array of comprehensive, competitive benefit programs that add value to our employees. The annual salary range for this role is $100,000 – $150,000, and the position is eligible for bonus/incentive pay. Benefits include flexible time off, medical, dental, vision insurance, and a 401(k) plan for eligible employees.

Danaher Corporation and all Danaher Companies are committed to equal opportunity regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other characteristics protected by law. U.S. EEO posters are available.