Summary:
A well established manufacturer in Hocking County, Ohio is seeking a hands-on, highly organized Production Manager to lead daily operations in a busy plant. This role oversees production, quality, safety, personnel, scheduling, and maintenance coordination across the plant, yard, and related support functions.
The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, enjoys being on the floor with their team, and has a strong eye for quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Production & Quality Management
Ensure all pallet plant operations follow company and general industry safety standards.
Oversee the quality of all lumber, pallets, and skids, including:
Dimensional accuracy and squareness
Soundness of lumber (free of rot, excessive knots, splits, etc.)
Validate correct machine setups during changeovers (resaws, nailing machines, assembly tables, jigs, fixtures).
Monitor material dimensions throughout the day and adjust processes as needed.
Manage lumber flow using a FIFO inventory system to minimize degrade.
Oversee heat-treating operations to ISPM 15 standards, including:
Verifying chamber temperature/time requirements
Ensuring proper markings and documentation
Submitting HT data promptly after each cycle
Shipping, Inventory & Scheduling
Confirm accuracy of outbound loads (counts, markings, packaging, stack heights, banding).
Provide accurate information to office staff for shipment paperwork.
Develop and distribute daily and weekly production schedules to meet customer demand and maintain inventory levels.
Identify material needs in advance and coordinate with operations leadership to ensure timely procurement.
Report daily finished goods production and lumber production as required.
Personnel Leadership
Train new and existing employees to ensure safe, efficient operations.
Assign daily goals, track progress, and provide timely feedback.
Motivate employees through positive reinforcement and constructive coaching.
Foster a team-oriented environment focused on morale, cooperation, and continuous improvement.
Maintenance Coordination
Supervise maintenance personnel responsible for plant equipment, grounds, trucks, and trailers.
Conduct regular walk-throughs to identify repair needs and safety concerns.
Create daily maintenance task lists and monitor preventive maintenance logs.
Purchasing & Supply Management
Order plant supplies such as nails, staples, saw blades, saw teeth, lubricants, and other consumables.
Coordinate with maintenance staff to avoid duplicate orders.
Ensure all necessary supplies are on hand ahead of production needs.
Operational Presence
Maintain strong, consistent presence across all plant functions—resawing, assembly, heat-treating, handling, and loading.
Actively monitor operations, engage with operators, and maintain a "critical eye” for improvements.
This is a direct-hire, full-time and salaried team member. Pay is competitive. Benefits are available.
Qualifications
Experience in manufacturing, wood products, pallet production, or a related industrial environment preferred.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to train, motivate, and hold teams accountable.
Working knowledge of production scheduling, quality control, and safety standards.
Ability to troubleshoot operational issues and coordinate maintenance activities.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Comfortable working in a hands-on, fast-paced environment.