What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operations Manager position at Birmingham Search Group?
Job Posting: Operations Manager – E-Coat Facility
Location: Brighton, Michigan
Department: Plant Operations
Pay - $85,000 - $100,000
Reports To: President
About the Role:
We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Operations Manager to lead daily operations at our e-coat (electrophoretic coating) facility. This critical leadership role is responsible for driving operational excellence, safety quality, and efficiency in a high-volume manufacturing environment focused on premium, protective coatings for metal components.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee all aspects of e-coat production operations, including pretreatment, coating application, curing, and post-processing.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of production supervisors, technicians, and support staff to achieve safety, quality, and production targets.
- Optimize production schedules, throughput, and resource utilization while maintaining strict quality standards.
- Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and improve process efficiency.
- Ensure full compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations (EPA, OSHA, etc.), particularly those related to chemical handling, wastewater treatment, and hazardous materials in e-coat processes.
- Monitor and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) including First-Time Quality (FTQ), On-Time Delivery (OTD), scrap rates, uptime, and cost per unit.
- Troubleshoot process issues related to bath chemistry, voltage, temperature, coating thickness, and line performance.
- Collaborate with Maintenance, Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to minimize downtime and resolve technical challenges.
- Manage operating budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for capital improvements or process automation.
- Champion a strong safety culture and ensure all team members adhere to proper PPE and safe operating procedures.
Qualifications & Experience Preferred:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related technical field (or equivalent experience).
- 5 years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 3 years in coatings, e-coat, powder coating, or automotive finishing operations.
- Strong working knowledge of e-coat chemistry, process parameters, equipment (rectifiers, tanks, UF systems, ovens), and troubleshooting.
- Proven track record in Lean/Six Sigma methodologies and data-driven decision making.
- Strong communication skills
- Knowledge of ERP systems
What We Offer:
- Competitive base salary performance bonus
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Paid time off and holidays
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth
Salary : $85,000 - $100,000