Manager, Production
Pace Packaging, based in Fairfield, New Jersey, is a leading provider of automated bottle unscramblers, bottle orientors, and conveyor cleaning systems. Pace has provided solutions across a variety of industries including beverage, food, household chemicals, personal care products, and pharmaceutical for over 40 years. Through multiple brands, Pro Mach provides product packaging and processing equipment, PMMI certified training, installation, parts, and service for primary and secondary packaging, flexible packaging, end-of-line packaging, and identification and tracking.
Production Manager
Overview : The Production Manager is responsible for leading and supervising a multidisciplinary production team to ensure efficient assembly, testing, and delivery of high-quality packaging machinery. This role serves as the primary point of leadership and communication between the shop floor and internal / external stakeholders, driving safety, quality, and on-time performance.
Key Responsibilities :
- Lead, motivate, and coach a team of direct reports responsible for machine assembly, testing, and shipment.
- Serve as the primary internal and external contact for all shop floor operations.
- Conduct meaningful performance evaluations, providing both positive and constructive feedback.
- Recruit, train, and develop team members through a formal training program aligned with the company's business plan.
Production Management :
Plan, assign, and monitor work in alignment with the master production schedule.Measure individual and team performance against established labor standards.Ensure accurate recording of labor hours and alignment with project budgets.Coordinate daily production activities and provide progress updates to the management team.Identify potential risks and recommend corrective actions to maintain schedule and quality.Manage floor stock using VMI and Fastenal systems.Quality & Continuous Improvement :
Conduct machine inspections and verify assembly completion for Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and shipment readiness.Prepare tooling for bottle-specific machines and lead FAT sessions with customers.Address and complete all customer-requested corrections before shipment.Drive adoption of the Engineering Change Notice (ECN) process to support continuous improvement and cost reduction.Provide feedback to project management team on ECN cost impacts.Collaborate with Engineering to provide feedback on design for manufacturability.Support lean manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and maintain a safe, organized workspace.Develop and maintain assembly methods, procedures, and manuals for production.Cross-Functional Collaboration :
Maintain effective communication with Engineering, Materials Management, Shipping & Receiving, and Customer Support teams to resolve technical issues.Coordinate with multiple departments to expedite part completion, modifications, and procurement.Partner with Materials team to manage shortages and optimize builds.Ensure compliance with all safety and health policies and regulations.Maintenance & Operations Support :
Oversee machine shop equipment and preventative maintenance programs.Maintain accurate production records and documentation of dispatched goods.Routinely report operational progress and drive proactive and reactive actions as needed.Qualifications & Requirements :
Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or Technical field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.10+ years of combined experience in facility / equipment maintenance or equipment fabrication / assembly.Proven experience managing machinists and / or assembly operations.Strong leadership, change management, problem-solving, and communication skills.Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, methods, and best practices.Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks, Creo, or AutoCAD.Ability to read and interpret mechanical blueprints and electrical schematics.Demonstrated ability to analyze problems, gather data, and implement effective solutions.Excellent time management, organizational, and prioritization skills.Experience with Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) systems.Proficient in Microsoft Office or equivalent business software.Benefits :
Salary is only a part of a well-developed compensation program. As a Pro Mach employee, you receive more than just a paycheck. Total compensation includes your pay (base salary), very comprehensive medical / dental programs as well as life insurance, a generous paid time off program, a retirement savings plan with a company match and a wellness program. There is no waiting period for benefits you are eligible on your first day of employment. Pro Mach is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pro Mach complies with all states mandating the use of E-Verify to verify employment eligibility of new hires to work in the United States. Pro Mach is a drug-free workplace.