Operations Manager

A well-established Midwest metal fabricator is seeking a hands-on to lead a growing power grid manufacturing operation in the Western St. Louis region. This business is entering a major expansion cycle, supported by increased production capacity, strong customer demand, and significant new contract opportunities. The Operations Manager will play a central role in scaling the operation while strengthening safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and employee accountability.

This is a highly visible, on-site leadership position reporting directly to the General Manager.

The Operations Manager will oversee the daily performance of a metal fabrication facility producing metal fabricated components for the power grid market. The operation includes:
Laser cuttingCNC machining

Press brake formingMIG and TIG welding

Powder coating and finishing

Assembly

Material handling

Shipping and logistics

Outside processing and subcontracted operations.

Provide overall leadership and direction for plant operations

Lead production, maintenance, quality, logistics, and supporting functions

Establish a strong culture of safety, accountability, and employee engagement

Oversee production scheduling, labor planning, material flow, and equipment utilization

Ensure customer expectations are met for safety, quality, cost, and on-time delivery

Monitor and improve operational KPIs, including OEE, scrap, labor efficiency, throughput, and delivery

Drive Lean Manufacturing, 5S, standardized work, and continuous improvement

Improve workflow, capacity utilization, and manufacturing efficiency

Recruit, develop, coach, and hold supervisory and hourly employees accountable

Partner with engineering, supply chain, quality, and business development

Support customer qualification, launch, and problem-resolution activities

Coordinate outside suppliers and processors to maintain production schedules

Participate in budgeting and control manufacturing costs

Ensure compliance with OSHA, environmental, employment, and other regulatory requirements.

Seven or more years of progressive manufacturing experience

At least three years of plant, production, or operations leadership experience

Experience with in metal fabrication, heavy manufacturing, electrical equipment, transformers, or a related industry

Strong knowledge of welding, machining, forming, fabrication, coating, and assembly operations

Hands-on leadership style with a track record of developing people and improving performance

Experience using Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement tools

Ability to interpret operational data and convert it into action

Familiarity with ERP systems and Microsoft Office Strong communication, decision-making, and organizational skills

Bachelor's degree preferred, although equivalent manufacturing leadership experience will be considered.

Join a stable manufacturer with more than four decades of operating history. Lead a business segment positioned for substantial growth. Work directly with a respected General Manager. Help scale an operation serving the expanding power grid and transformer market. Gain meaningful influence over people, processes, capacity, and capital priorities.

• Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, 401(k) match, paid time off, paid holidays, tuition assistance, and an employee assistance program
• Competitive compensation based on experience

This position does not offer employment visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship. All inquiries will be handled confidentially.