Production and Operations Manager

ESA Fabrication proudly produces Made in the USA innovative solutions designed to streamline job site workflows, enhance workplace safety, and reduce costs. As a leading manufacturer of material handling products in the construction industry, we are committed to versatility and excellence, embracing a "can do" attitude in every aspect of our business. Our mission is to provide cutting-edge, reliable products that meet the demands of modern construction, helping professionals achieve greater efficiency and safety on-site. Whether it's solving complex material handling challenges or developing tools that save time and resources, ESA Fabrication is dedicated to delivering exceptional quality and performance.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a hands-on Production & Operations Manager to lead our fabrication operations through a critical growth phase. This role is responsible for stabilizing daily production while building the systems, processes, and structure required to scale efficiently. This is not a maintenance role—this is a transformation role. You will lead scheduling, workflow, quality, and shop performance across cutting, machining, welding, and outsourced finishing processes.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Production Execution & Throughput Own daily shop floor operations across all fabrication processes Improve scheduling and workflow to reduce lead times (target: cut current lead times by 30-50%) Balance workload between custom jobs and standard production Identify and eliminate bottlenecks (especially laser outsourcing and welding queues) 2. Process Development & Standardization Implement standardized work instructions and routing structures Introduce basic production control systems (visual management, job tracking, WIP control) Establish repeatable processes for both custom and standard products Develop capacity planning models 3. Quality System Implementation Build and implement a practical, right-sized quality management system Establish inspection checkpoints and documentation Reduce rework and defects through process control (not just inspection) Create accountability for quality at the operator level 4. Planning, Scheduling & Systems Replace spreadsheet-driven planning with structured production control methods Partner in evaluating and improving ERP/MES capabilities Improve job costing accuracy and production visibility Implement KPI tracking (on-time delivery, throughput, scrap, labor efficiency) 5. Vendor & Outsourcing Management Manage and optimize outsourced laser cutting and powder coating vendors Evaluate insourcing opportunities (cost vs. throughput vs. control) Improve turnaround times and reliability of external processes 6. Team Leadership Lead and develop shop personnel (fabricators, welders, machinists) Establish accountability, expectations, and performance standards Build a culture of ownership, quality, and continuous improvement

Required Qualifications:

5-10+ years in metal fabrication, job shop, or mixed-mode manufacturing Proven experience managing high-mix, low-volume production environments Strong understanding of: Welding and fabrication processes Sheet metal and structural fabrication workflows Shop scheduling and bottleneck management Demonstrated success improving throughput, lead time, or shop efficiency

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing or similar operational frameworks Experience introducing or improving ERP/MES systems Background in both custom fabrication AND product-based manufacturing Familiarity with outsourced process coordination (e.g., coating, cutting)

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$100,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s): What interests you about this position at ESA Fabrication and why are you the right candidate?

Education:

Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

Metal Manufacturing:

5 years (Required) ERP systems: 5 years (Required)

Work Location:

In person