Manufacturing Operations Manager

MKB Company is seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of our Portage, Wisconsin facility. This role is ideal for an operational leader who enjoys being close to the work—leading employees, improving warehouse and production processes, maintaining inventory accuracy, and ensuring products are delivered safely, efficiently, and on time. The Manufacturing Operations Manager will have overall responsibility for the facility while partnering with teams across MKB to drive accountability, continuous improvement, and strong customer service.

Essential Responsibilities

Operations Leadership

Lead all day-to-day operations of the Portage facility.
Ensure products are manufactured, assembled, stored, and shipped safely, efficiently, and accurately.
Develop daily production and warehouse priorities to meet customer demand.
Monitor workflow and adjust resources to maximize productivity.

Warehouse & Inventory Management

Maintain accurate inventory through cycle counts and inventory controls.
Oversee receiving, storage, picking, shipping, and transportation activities.
Investigate inventory discrepancies and implement corrective actions.
Optimize warehouse organization and material flow.

People Leadership

Lead, coach, and develop warehouse and production employees.
Build employee engagement and accountability.
Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching.
Manage staffing levels and scheduling.
Partner with Human Resources on recruiting, training, and employee relations.

Safety & Quality

Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with OSHA and company safety standards.
Conduct regular safety observations and corrective actions.
Ensure quality standards are consistently met.
Lead investigations and corrective actions for safety or quality issues.

Continuous Improvement

Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and improve service.
Implement Lean manufacturing and warehouse best practices.
Develop and maintain standard operating procedures.
Utilize KPIs to drive operational performance.

Financial & Administrative

Manage labor productivity and overtime.
Monitor operating expenses.
Maintain accurate reporting and operational metrics.
Partner with Supply Chain, Sales, and Corporate teams to support business objectives.

Qualifications

Required

5+ years of leadership experience in warehouse, manufacturing, distribution, or operations.
Experience leading hourly employees.
Strong inventory management experience.
Working knowledge of warehouse operations and shipping/receiving.
Experience with ERP/WMS systems.
Strong communication and leadership skills.
Ability to identify problems and implement practical solutions.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Preferred

Bachelor's degree in Operations, Supply Chain, Business, or related field.
Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience.
OSHA or safety leadership experience.
Experience in building materials, manufacturing, or industrial distribution.