Job Description

Area Manager - Manufacturing Operations | 1st Shift

RL Enterprise Recruiting & Staffing is partnering with a leading manufacturing client to hire an experienced Area Manager to lead operations at their facility.

Schedule: 1st Shift + OT as needed across shifts

Compensation:

• Base Salary: $80,000 - $110,000
• Annual Bonus + Quarterly Incentive Program

Location: Blytheville, AR

Local candidates preferred (within 1-hour commute) - No relocation assistance available

About the Role:

We're seeking a hands-on manufacturing leader to provide direction and leadership for approximately 30-40 associates across operations. This critical leadership position partners directly with the Plant Manager to drive safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement initiatives while managing resources in the most cost-effective manner.

Key Responsibilities:

Safety & Environment:

• Communicate, promote, and enforce all safety policies and procedures
• Maintain a clean, safe working environment with emphasis on hazard prevention
• Lead 6S process implementation and auditing to sustain safety and housekeeping standards

Team Leadership:

• Manage staffing through recruiting, interviewing, selecting, and training associates
• Execute performance management processes and associate development programs
• Foster engagement and involvement through effective communication and inspiration
• Oversee hiring, retention, and performance management for the area

Quality & Continuous Improvement:

• Manage quality plan adherence and layered process audits
• Promote hands-on, high-involvement approaches to problem solving
• Drive operational excellence through cell boards, data analysis, Kaizen, and SMED
• Implement "win the hour, win the day, win the year" methodology

Production & Service:

• Utilize ERP/MRP systems to run production lines efficiently and meet customer requirements
• Optimize shipping/receiving processes for on-time delivery
• Collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams to maximize equipment performance
• Support cross-functional success across the organization

Cost Management:

• Analyze data and trends to optimize operational costs
• Manage overtime, headcount, and resource utilization effectively
• Ensure area achieves all goals and objectives through continuous improvement tools

Required Qualifications:

• High School diploma or equivalent
• 3+ years in a manufacturing leadership role OR advanced degree (Associate's, Bachelor's, or technical degree)
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP systems
• Demonstrated leadership competencies with emphasis on associate engagement and development
• Strong communication skills with ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to plan, prioritize, and own area of responsibility
• Basic understanding of continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, 6-Sigma, Theory of Constraints)
• Strong attention to detail with commitment to safety

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate's, Bachelor's, or technical degree
• 5+ years in manufacturing leadership
• Steel processing/metal manufacturing knowledge highly preferred
• Lean Manufacturing background and implementation experience
• Knowledge of continuous improvement and lean methodologies

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to walk, sit, stand, climb, bend, stoop, kneel, or crawl up to 10 hours
• Work in varying temperature conditions based on weather
• Flexibility to work outside normal business hours, including weekdays and weekends as needed

Why Join Our Client?

• Competitive compensation with performance-based incentives
• Opportunity to lead and develop a team of 40+ associates
• Drive meaningful improvements in safety, quality, and productivity
• Work with a stable, growing manufacturing organization

RL Enterprise Recruiting & Staffing is an equal opportunity employer committed to building diverse and inclusive teams.

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