Production Manager

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.