Assistant Production Manager

Summary/Objective The Assistant Production Manager is responsible for overseeing daily manufacturing operations while actively participating in hands-on tasks within the Nonwoven facility. This role combines leadership, process oversight, and direct involvement in machine operation, troubleshooting, quality control, and continuous improvement to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality manufacturing. Essential Functions Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Oversee all aspects of plant operations. Implement best practices to maximize efficiency and reduce waste. Actively work alongside production staff on the floor, operating and troubleshooting equipment as needed. Assist with machine setups, adjustments, and basic maintenance to ensure smooth production runs. Lead by example in upholding quality, safety, and housekeeping standards. Supervise production staff, assign tasks, and monitor workflow to achieve production targets. Enforce plant safety policies and ensure compliance with OSHA and company standards. Participate in safety inspections, incident investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives. Assist with scheduling, production planning and inventory management. Support cost control initiatives and contribute to meeting budgetary goals. Competencies Strong leadership and communication Problem-solving and mechanical aptitude Safety and quality focused mindset Ability to prioritize and adapt quickly Teamwork Supervisory Responsibility This position has supervisory responsibilities. Work Environment This job operates in a manufacturing environment. This role routinely uses highly specialized lab equipment and standard office equipment such as computers, phones and photocopiers. The candidate is frequently exposed to noise, dust and various chemicals, and moving mechanical parts require the use of appropriate personal protective equipment including safety glasses, hearing protection and non-skid shoes. Physical Demands While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, sit, walk, stand, and hear. This employee may be required to reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, crouch, and occasionally lift to 50 Ibs. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus. May be exposed to heat, flame, chemicals, and noises. Position Type and Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time position. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Friday hours may vary based on production demand and may be shorter (e.g., 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.). Flexibility is required, and extended hours or occasional weekend work may be necessary to meet operational needs. Travel This position requires up to 25% travel. Frequently travel inside the local area to other plant locations. Required Education and Experience Technical or associate degree 3+ years of manufacturing experience in textiles Preferred Education and Experience Bachelor's degree A minimum of 5 years of experience in Textiles A minimum of 1 year of experience in Nonwovens AAP/EEO Statement TenCate Protective Fabrics provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Equal employment opportunities apply to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, selection, hiring, training, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and demotion. Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Internal Candidates Currently open to internal candidates only. Employees interested in this position should apply no later than Friday, November 21 st .