Production Manager - Plastics

Production Manager - Injection Moulding Plastics Industry

Job Title: Production Manager
Department: Manufacturing
Location: West Yorkshire

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Production Manager to oversee operations in our clients injection moulding plastics facility. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring efficient production processes, meeting quality standards, managing resources effectively, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. This role requires a strong technical understanding of injection moulding processes, leadership skills, and a commitment to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

1. Production Planning and Management:
• Develop and implement production schedules to meet customer demand and delivery deadlines.
• Ensure optimal utilization of resources, including materials, equipment, and labour.
• Monitor daily production activities and resolve issues promptly.
2. Quality Assurance:
• Maintain high-quality production standards by adhering to quality management systems (ISO 9001 or similar).
• Collaborate with the quality control team to identify and address defects or inefficiencies.
• Implement and uphold best practices to minimize scrap and waste.
3. Process Optimization:
• Analyse production processes and recommend improvements to increase efficiency and reduce downtime.
• Lead initiatives for lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies or equipment to enhance productivity.
4. Team Leadership:
• Supervise, train, and motivate a team of machine operators, technicians, and other production staff.
• Set performance goals, provide regular feedback, and conduct performance evaluations.
• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and teamwork.
5. Health & Safety Compliance:
• Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.
• Conduct regular safety audits and risk assessments.
• Promote safe work practices and provide training where necessary.
6. Inventory and Maintenance Management:
• Oversee inventory levels for raw materials and finished products to avoid shortages or overstocking.
• Coordinate with the maintenance team to ensure equipment is serviced and operational.
7. Reporting and Communication:
• Prepare production reports, including key performance indicators (KPIs) such as cycle times, yield, and downtime.
• Communicate production status and challenges to senior management and other departments.

Qualifications and Skills

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a production management role within the injection moulding industry.
• Proven expertise in injection moulding processes, materials (e.g., thermoplastics, resins), and machine setup.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in production management software (e.g., ERP systems).
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.

Certifications (Preferred):

• Six Sigma Green Belt or higher.
• Certification in Occupational Health and Safety or equivalent.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• On-time delivery rates.
• Reduction in production downtime and defects.
• Compliance with safety standards.
• Improvement in cycle times and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).