Production Manager
Location: Tonawanda, NY
Pay Range: $90,000 - $130,000 annually
 
Position Overview
Our client is seeking a Production Manager to lead manufacturing operations across machining, fabrication, assembly, finishing, and shipping functions. This individual will be responsible for driving safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and cost performance across the production floor. This role is a hands-on leadership position focused on improving operational execution, building team capability, and implementing Lean manufacturing practices. The Production Manager will play a key role in improving on-time delivery and operational efficiency within a growing manufacturing organization.
 
Key Responsibilities
 
Production Execution & Operations

• Oversee daily production operations across machining, fabrication, assembly, finishing, and shipping
• Ensure all production orders are executed on time, on budget, and defect-free
• Manage production schedules and align output with project timelines and customer commitments
• Identify and resolve production bottlenecks and operational issues
• Ensure proper maintenance and upkeep of equipment, tools, and facilities

 
Safety & Quality

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and company policies
• Address quality issues, non-conformances, and production discrepancies
• Partner with quality and engineering teams to improve processes and outcomes

 
Team Leadership & Development

• Lead and manage a production team of approximately 15–20 employees (machinists, welders, assemblers, etc.)
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching and feedback
• Drive accountability, engagement, and performance across the team
• Implement cross-training programs to increase workforce flexibility and capability
• Develop future leaders and support team growth

 
Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement

• Implement Lean tools and methodologies (Kaizen, 5S, continuous improvement)
• Identify waste and inefficiencies in production processes and drive improvements
• Support ERP and process optimization to improve productivity and visibility
• Evaluate make vs. buy decisions to optimize cost and capacity

 
KPI Management & Reporting

• Track and improve key performance indicators including:
  • Safety
  • Quality
  • Delivery
  • Inventory
  • Productivity
  • Cost
• Communicate KPI performance daily with the production team
• Drive action plans to improve performance and close gaps

 
Capacity Planning & Growth Support

• Develop and maintain capacity and capability plans aligned with business growth
• Support scaling of operations, including potential expansion to additional shifts
• Collaborate with procurement, project management, and leadership to align production with demand

 
Qualifications

• Experience leading production or manufacturing operations
• Background in fabrication, machining, assembly, or industrial manufacturing environments
• Strong leadership experience managing hourly production teams
• Hands-on experience with Lean manufacturing principles and tools
• Ability to manage production schedules and operational execution
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Experience working in build-to-order or custom manufacturing environments preferred
• Ability to read technical drawings preferred
• Degree, diploma, or equivalent experience in a technical or business field preferred

 
Preferred Background

• Precision metal fabrication or industrial equipment manufacturing
• Custom or engineered-to-order production environments
• Experience in welding, machining, or assembly operations
• Exposure to ASME or similar standards is a plus

 
Leadership & Personal Competencies

• Strong people leader with the ability to motivate and develop teams
• Hands-on, accountable, and results-driven
• Strong communicator across all levels of the organization
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Adaptable and comfortable in a growing, evolving environment

 
Why This Role Is Attractive

• Opportunity to lead and improve a production operation during a period of growth and transformation
• High impact role focused on driving performance and building team capability
• Direct visibility into operational improvements and business outcomes
• Strong leadership support and opportunity to shape the future of the operation