Production Manager

IFS is seeking a high-impact Production Manager to lead our manufacturing operations. This is a role for a hands-on, execution-focused leader who combines strategic vision with a consistent ability to deliver. You will own the full production lifecycle for our pump, OverWatch, electrical controls, and Oil Minder product lines and will ensure that every unit ships on time, on spec, and within budget.

We are looking for someone who drives outcomes, not just activity. The right candidate sets clear expectations, removes obstacles quickly, and holds themselves and their team accountable for results. If you bring a bias for action and a track record of following through, this role is built for you.

Responsibilities

Production Leadership & Execution

• Define and execute the strategic direction of production, aligning products, processes, and assembly operations to optimize efficiency, scalability, and profitability.
• Develop and manage an effective production schedule in partnership with Planning and Sales, leveraging demand trends, backlog, and capacity to ensure on-time delivery.
•  Oversee all assembly and testing activities for pumps, electrical control panels, OverWatch, and Oil Minder which encompasses welding, cabling, potting, and repair operations.
• Continuously evaluate production processes, identify bottlenecks, and deploy data-driven countermeasures to drive measurable performance improvements.

Operational Excellence

• Lead the implementation and sustainment of lean manufacturing principles, driving waste elimination, improved flow, and increased productivity.
• Establish and enforce standardized work, policies, and procedures to ensure consistency, quality, and adherence to safety standards.
• Own facilities management, including preventive and corrective maintenance programs, scheduling HVAC servicing, coordinating facility repairs, and managing vendor and contractor relationships to ensure a safe, functional, and uninterrupted work environment.
• Maintain a facilities calendar to track and prioritize scheduled maintenance, inspections, and repairs proactively addressing issues before they impact production.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all facilities-related service providers, obtaining quotes, overseeing work quality, and ensuring timely completion within budget.
• Develop, monitor, and analyze production budgets and KPIs including on-time delivery, productivity, and cycle time to meet financial and operational targets.

Team & Cross-Functional Leadership

• Act as a proactive, forward-thinking leader who anticipates challenges, drives continuous improvement, and fosters a solutions-oriented culture.
• Lead, coach, and develop production personnel including hiring, training, and performance management to build a high-performing, accountable team.
• Partner with Supply Chain, Planning, and Warehouse to ensure material availability, inventory optimization, and efficient flow to meet customer commitments.
• Collaborate with Quality and Engineering to maintain robust quality systems and accurate BOMs and drawings, with timely communication of all updates and changes.
• Maintain a safe, OSHA-compliant work environment at all times.

Qualifications

The right candidate has a demonstrated history of delivering results in complex manufacturing environments. Beyond technical expertise, we are looking for a leader with the initiative and follow-through to turn plans into outcomes.

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 10 years of progressive experience and responsibility in manufacturing or production management.
• Proven track record of driving measurable improvements in on-time delivery, productivity, and operational efficiency.
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Known for setting clear priorities, following through consistently, and holding teams accountable for commitments.
• Proficiency in ERP systems; Microsoft Business Central strongly preferred.
• Proficient in MS Office Suite.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and cross-functional leadership skills.

Company Description

Industrial Flow Solutions™ (IFS) is a global leader in designing, manufacturing, and servicing wastewater pumps and innovative control solutions. Headquartered in New Haven, Connecticut, with facilities in Italy, IFS provides high-quality products such as OverWatch® Direct In-Line Pump Systems, BJM Pumps®, and DERAGGER®, catering to municipal, industrial, commercial, and residential applications. Supported by decades of technical expertise, IFS delivers comprehensive assistance from design to post-installation. With an in-house testing facility built to Hydraulic Institute Standards, IFS ensures reliability and efficiency while focusing on sustainable solutions, cost reduction, and excellent customer service.