Production Manager – Manufacturing

About Us

Machine & Process Design (MPD) designs and builds custom processing equipment used across multiple industries, including dairy, food, pet food, chemical, agricultural, and pharmaceutical. Our machines are known for their quality, durability, and craftsmanship — and we take pride in the people who build them.

We're looking for a Production Manager who not only knows how to keep projects moving but also understands how things are made. The ideal candidate will bring a manufacturing or manufacturing engineering background, a sharp eye for detail, and the ability to lead a team with respect, clarity, and accountability.

Position Overview

The Production Manager serves as the key link between our front office and production floor, ensuring that projects flow smoothly from design through fabrication, assembly, and shipment. This role requires both technical knowledge and leadership skills: someone who can read a blueprint, understand manufacturing processes, and coordinate materials and schedules while keeping people motivated and on track.

You'll oversee a team of around 10-20 skilled employees (welders, fabricators, polishers, and assemblers), ensuring each project has the materials, direction, and clear expectations needed to move efficiently through production.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage production schedules to ensure jobs are completed on time and within budget.
• Coordinate workflow based on project priorities, lead times, and available materials.
• Review blueprints, bills of materials, and project documentation to verify accuracy and manufacturability.
• Understand and apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and basic machining and fabrication concepts (lathe, mill, and weld prints).
• Cross-reference material needs with ERP system (e.g., Sage) and purchasing records to confirm accurate procurement and receiving.
• Work closely with purchasing to monitor material status and prevent production delays.
• Communicate regularly with engineering, sales, and shop staff to align project goals and expectations.
• Provide clear direction to team members and hold them accountable for quality, organization, and timelines.
• Promote safety, efficiency, and teamwork across the production floor.
• (Preferred) Assist with estimating by understanding design scope and production time requirements.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Manufacturing or manufacturing engineering background with solid understanding of shop operations.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, weld prints, and machining drawings.
• Working knowledge of GD&T, fabrication, and machining practices.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems (Sage experience preferred).
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when cross-referencing materials, BOMs, and purchase orders.
• Proven leadership and communication skills; able to motivate, organize, and hold others accountable.
• Excellent organizational and scheduling ability.
• Solid problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in custom equipment manufacturing or job-shop environments.
• Estimating or quoting experience.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles.
• Proficiency with spreadsheets and scheduling tools.
• Mechanical aptitude and a strong understanding of manufacturing workflow.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay, based on experience.
• Benefits package including health, dental, and retirement options.
• A collaborative work environment where your leadership directly impacts production success.
• The opportunity to grow within a company that values precision, integrity, and craftsmanship.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90, $115,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person