What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operations Manager position at Sterling Engineering?
Title: Operations Manager (Plastic Injection Molding)
Location: Buffalo Grove, IL
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Shift: Monday - Friday, regular hours.
Compensation: $150,000 – $175,000
Benefits: Full Benefits Packet
Must have Skill Set: Plastic injection molding experience, manufacturing leadership experience, knowledge of ISO 13485 and FDA regulations (21 CFR Part 820), Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma experience.
Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Operations Manager to lead a plastic injection molding facility focused on medical device component manufacturing. This role is responsible for overseeing all production operations while partnering cross-functionally with engineering, quality, maintenance, and supply chain teams to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and drive operational excellence. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, deep technical expertise, and a continuous improvement mindset.
Job Duties:
- Oversee daily injection molding operations to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets
- Ensure compliance with ISO 13485, FDA cGMP, and internal quality standards
- Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and best practices
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams on new product introduction (NPI) and manufacturability
- Forecast operational costs and manage departmental budgets
- Lead strategic planning and Annual Operating Plan (AOP) initiatives
- Manage production scheduling, capacity planning, and resource allocation
- Monitor KPIs and drive improvements in efficiency, scrap reduction, and downtime
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, 5S, and Kaizen methodologies
- Oversee staffing, training, performance management, and team development
- Ensure proper maintenance and readiness of equipment and tooling
- Coordinate with supply chain to maintain material availability and optimize inventory
- Build and maintain strong customer relationships
Qualifications Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field
- 7 years of manufacturing leadership experience
- 5 years of plastic injection molding experience
- Strong knowledge of medical device manufacturing standards (ISO 13485, FDA regulations)
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma
- Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Preferred:
- Six Sigma (Green Belt or higher), Lean, or PMP certification
- Experience with medical devices
- Scientific injection molding knowledge
- Experience with mold and tool maintenance
Salary : $150,000 - $175,000