About the position
Ignite Your Career with Midwest Fire! At Midwest Fire, we're more than just a manufacturer—we're a dedicated partner to the brave men and women who protect our communities. Since 1987, we've been at the forefront of designing and delivering over 2,000 fire trucks across North America. We pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to quality, excellence, and the relentless pursuit of innovation. If you're passionate about making a tangible difference and leading a dynamic team in a company that values its people as much as its products, then we want you to join us. The Operations Manager at Midwest Fire is responsible for leading and managing the manufacturing, project management, engineering, and purchasing departments. This role requires the application of lean manufacturing principles, a strong quality management system, and modern inventory management techniques. Reporting directly to the President, the Operations Manager plays a crucial role in identifying and implementing strategies to enhance efficiency, maintain quality controls, and manage materials and inventory. The Operations Manager ensures that all operational activities are completed on time, within budget, and meet the company's high standards for quality and customer satisfaction.
Responsibilities
- Lead and direct the manufacturing operations, including planning, engineering, project management, and purchasing departments, to ensure streamlined and efficient processes.
- Utilize lean manufacturing philosophies to increase productivity and efficiency across all manufacturing processes, ensuring compliance with established certifications and industry standards.
- Identify and implement continuous improvement processes related to materials, labor, and equipment to meet and exceed production targets.
- Ensure a safe workplace by maintaining and optimizing machinery, equipment, production systems, and methods of work, making proactive adjustments as necessary.
- Oversee quality management systems, production KPIs, and reporting procedures to ensure the highest product quality and operational efficiency.
- Monitor staffing requirements, hire new employees as needed, and collaborate with department leads to build a strong team, improve employee satisfaction, and reduce turnover.
- Manage data collection and performance metrics to ensure Midwest Fire achieves productivity targets, reduces cost per unit, and eliminates errors, continuing to deliver superior customer service.
- Ensure compliance with all safety policies and proactively identify and address related training needs.
- Oversee materials and inventory management, ensuring the timely availability of necessary resources.
- Participate actively in the company leadership team, contributing to strategic planning and execution of company goals.
- Conduct budget reviews, manage cost plans, and report financial performance to executive management, ensuring that all operational activities remain on time and within budget.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial or Mechanical Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
- Minimum of ten years of manufacturing experience, preferably within a customized or custom manufacturing environment.
- Proven ability to lead, motivate, and manage an operations team effectively.
- Strong IT skills, including proficiency with MRP/ERP software systems.
- Familiarity with LEAN manufacturing and custom manufacturing methods.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, with strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
- Outstanding judgment and leadership skills with the ability to delegate responsibilities while maintaining control over operations and customer service.
Nice-to-haves
- A Master's in Business Administration (MBA) is considered an asset.
Benefits
- Quarterly Incentive / Bonus
- Holidays, Vacation & Sick Leave
- Medical Insurance
- Dental & Vision Insurance
