Department Manager

Printpack, a leading name in plastic packaging manufacturing, is looking for a dynamic and experienced Department Manager to take the helm of our thermoforming and extrusion operations at our Newport News, Virginia facility.

Why This Role?

This isn't just a management position — it's an opportunity to shape the future of a critical production department. You'll have the autonomy to lead, the resources to innovate, and the support of a company that values continuous improvement at every level.

Salary Range: $89,134.00 - $115,000.00 USD

Annually depending on experience level

Requirements:

• A minimum of 5 years of operational/manufacturing experience
• One year of managerial/supervisory experience

Key Responsibilities and Competencies:

• Lead with Safety First – Ensure plant safety policies and regulatory compliance are consistently followed; drive root cause analysis and sustain corrective actions
• Drive Production Excellence – Manage daily production and process functions by following established schedules to maximize utilization of equipment and associates
• Champion Quality – Monitor production activities with a focus on quality standards, ensuring products meet customer specifications and preventing customer complaints
• Spearhead Continuous Improvement – Lead improvement initiatives in safety, quality, waste reduction, and cost savings using lean manufacturing principles and methodologies
• Develop Your Team – Provide leadership to department leads and associates through coaching, mentoring, feedback, and professional development opportunities
• Optimize Processes – Improve existing procedures and standards or develop new ones to maximize production and quality while minimizing waste
• Drive Accountability – Address performance issues in a timely manner and hold teams accountable for safety, quality, and productivity metrics
• Collaborate Cross-Functionally – Partner with internal departments to achieve customer satisfaction and coordinate improvement initiatives
• Leverage Data – Analyze production data, identify inefficiencies, and develop data-driven solutions to complex operational challenges
• Lead Change – Guide the department through improvement initiatives including tests, trials, and implementation while ensuring successful adoption

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Process Management, Operations, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent experience
• Prior experience in process optimization, operations management, or business management with demonstrated results
• Lean Manufacturing certifications preferred (Six Sigma Green Belt/Black Belt, Kaizen certification)
• Previous experience operating or troubleshooting thermoforming/extrusion lines and processes is a plus

Required Skills & Competencies

• Proven leadership and team management experience in a manufacturing environment
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Experience managing daily production operations, scheduling, and resource optimization
• Solid understanding of industrial safety standards and regulatory compliance
• Strong project management skills with the ability to lead initiatives from concept to implementation
• Advanced data analysis and performance measurement capabilities
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Demonstrated change management and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage competing demands effectively

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Primary office environment with regular plant floor exposure
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures, moderate noise levels, and occasional exposure to dust, chemicals, and industrial materials
• Must be able to stand, walk, climb stairs/ladders, and work on elevated platforms
• Capability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Required to wear PPE including hearing protection, steel-toe shoes, and safety glasses
• Work Schedule: Monday–Friday with flexibility for operational needs; occasional overtime during peak production periods

Additional Requirements

• Must be 18+ years of age
• Must pass pre-employment screening (drug test and background check)
• Internal candidates must demonstrate Core Values and be in good standing

Printpack is proudly an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment. Embracing diversity enhances our work culture and is vital to our success. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/parental status, genetic information, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, marital status, military or veteran status or affiliation, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.

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Printpack is committed to helping individuals with disabilities participate in the workforce and ensure equal opportunity to compete for jobs. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist you with your application for employment or job search, please get in touch with us by sending an email to [email protected]. Please include in your email a brief description of the accommodation you are requesting and the position for which you are interested in applying.