Manufacturing Manager

Kalkaska, MI
• Full-time
• Posted February 15, 2026

We are looking for a Manufacturing Site Leader for our office in Kalkaska.

For over 80 years,
Wayne Wire Cloth Products, Inc.has been a global leader in custom precision filtration component manufacturing. Trusted by Fortune 500 companies, we produce specialized wire mesh, perforated metal, and expanded metal solutions.

We serve critical, high-precision industries including
Aerospace, Defense, Automotive, Medical, Energy, and others
. Located near beautiful
Traverse City, Michigan
, our team enjoys a high quality of life alongside an innovative manufacturing environment.

• Executive Impact:High-visibility leadership role reporting directly to corporate executive management.
• Growth & Stability:Operational leadership of an established, growing facility with world‑class quality standards.
• Values-Driven Culture:We believe in dealing with reality, honoring commitments, communicating with candor, and taking personal responsibility for results.

• Operational & Site Leadership:Drive daily plant operations, optimize throughput, improve operator efficiency, and ensure projects are completed on schedule.
• Quality & Compliance:Oversee operations within
  AS9100D, ISO 9001, and NADCAP
  standards to deliver zero-defect components for demanding aerospace and automotive applications.
• Financial & Strategic Management:Manage the site budget, direct strategic goals, and present financial performance metrics in monthly executive reviews.
• Continuous Improvement:Implement Lean Manufacturing and cost-reduction initiatives across metal forming, pressing, welding, and assembly lines.
• Team Development:Recruit, mentor, and evaluate shop-floor staff, maintaining a collaborative and high-accountability workplace culture.
• Customer
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Lead technical and operational discussions with key clients to ensure 100% customer satisfaction and project delivery.

• Education:Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BS) required;
  Engineering, Supply Chain, or Business Administration preferred.
• Experience:10+ years of senior manufacturing management experience with full bottom-line operational accountability.
• Quality Management:Proven experience leading within
  AS5100D, ISO 9001, or NADCAP
  certified environments.
• Systems Expertise:Hands-on experience with ERP/MRP software and cost-accounting principles.

• Practical knowledge of wire mesh fabrication, sheet metal forming, kick/power pressing, TIG/MIG/resistance welding, and brazing processes (vacuum furnace, silver, gold/nickel).
• Strong track record of driving
  Lean Manufacturing
  and continuous improvement programs.
• A "lead from the front" mentality, willing to jump in hands-on and work flexible hours when needed to ensure operational success.

We value our team members and offer a competitive, comprehensive benefits package:

• Health & Wellness:Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance (includes prescription drug coverage)
• Financial Security:401(k) plan with company match + Discretionary Profit-Sharing Plan
• Income Protection:Salary Continuation and Long-Term Disability
• Pre-Tax Savings:Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Time Off:Paid Holidays and Vacation Time
• Professional Growth:Tuition Reimbursement

• On-site in the Traverse City, MI region.

Wayne Wire Cloth Products, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status.