Die Cut Manager

Winpak Heat Seal is looking to add a Die Cut Manager for their team based out of Pekin, Illinois.

The Die Cut Manager is responsible for overseeing all operations within the Die-Cut Department at Winpak Heat Seal Corporation in Pekin, IL. Reporting directly to the Plant Manager, this role leads a team of salaried and hourly personnel across multiple shifts, ensuring efficient and safe production processes while meeting quality and delivery standards. The Die Cut Manager will drive performance through the monitoring of key success factors (KSFs), implementation of continuous improvement initiatives, and adherence to 5S, Lean Manufacturing, and safety protocols. This position requires a strong leader with a background in manufacturing operations, team management, and process optimization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and inspire a team of die cut production staff across all shifts, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Drive operational excellence by monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) and implementing strategies that enhance efficiency, quality, and output.
• Champion lean manufacturing by applying 5S, Kaizen, and other continuous improvement tools to optimize workflows and reduce waste.
• Ensure on-time production by collaborating with planning and customer service teams to meet delivery targets and maintain customer satisfaction.
• Support team development through hands-on training, mentoring, and performance evaluations to build a skilled and engaged workforce.
• Utilize root cause analysis to identify production issues, resolve inefficiencies, and implement lasting process improvements.
• Coordinate staffing and scheduling in alignment with union contracts and production needs, ensuring effective resource management.
• Promote workplace safety by enforcing safety protocols and ensuring compliance with all GMP and food safety standards.
• Act as a cross-functional leader, working with supervisors, planners, and maintenance teams to ensure smooth and efficient operations.
• Contribute to long-term success by playing a key role in departmental strategy and continuous improvement initiatives - with growth potential toward Plant Manager.

Required Qualifications:

• 3+ years of hands-on manufacturing experience, with a preference for backgrounds in printing or related industries.
• 2+ years of proven supervisory experience, managing teams of 15-20 employees in a fast-paced production environment.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word for data tracking, reporting, and communication.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, with the ability to lead, influence, and build relationships at all levels.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze problems, identify root causes, and implement practical, lasting solutions.
• A track record of fostering team collaboration, building positive culture, and promoting continuous improvement.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Working knowledge or certification in 5S, Lean Manufacturing, or Kaizen
• Project management skills with the ability to juggle competing priorities and drive multiple initiatives to completion.
• Experience working in a unionized environment, with a solid understanding of labor relations and contract compliance.
• Experience with ERP systems such as Movex or similar platforms.

Additional Details:

• This position has occasional international travel including, but not limited to, Canada

Compensation range:

The compensation range is $110,000-$125,000 and is a general guideline only. Pay will be determined based on the candidates experience and expertise and is subject to vary.

Why Winpak?

Winpak is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to support the physical, mental, financial and social well-being of our employees and their families. Our benefit package includes the following:

• Medical, dental, vision & prescription coverage
• Travel coverage
• Disability coverage
• Voluntary life insurance
• Life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance
• Tuition assistance program
• Retirement savings plans
• A comprehensive employee and family assistance program which includes short term counselling, wellbeing coaching, financial and legal consultations services.

Winpak's vision is to provide the best packaging solutions for people and planet. We are a leading supplier of innovative packaging solutions, known for providing high-quality products that meet the needs of a variety of industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and consumer products. With a commitment to sustainability, safety, and excellence, Winpak continues to grow as a global leader in the packaging industry.

At Winpak, inclusion is one of our core values. We believe that an inclusive culture fosters a sense of belonging, drives innovation, and provides our brand a competitive advantage. Our goal is to create an environment free from harassment and discrimination, and where every individual feels respected, valued, and appreciated.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to an equitable and inclusive recruitment process, evaluating applicants based on merit, capability, and qualifications related to the job - never on identity factors such as race, color, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability, national origin, or any other protected status. To support this commitment, if you require any accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will work with you to ensure your needs are met.