Manufacturing Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the industrial sector, the role of manufacturing managers has never been more crucial.

As production processes become more complex and demand for efficiency rises, the need for skilled individuals who can oversee, optimize, and maintain our manufacturing operations grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a manufacturing manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect job specification,
• Or simply intrigued by the dynamics of manufacturing management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable manufacturing manager job description template, designed for convenient posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Manufacturing Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Manufacturing Managers oversee all aspects of a production process, ensuring that products are created safely, efficiently, and of the highest quality.

They play a pivotal role in planning, coordinating and directing activities that have a direct bearing on the manufacturing of products.

The duties and responsibilities include:

• Planning, organizing, directing and running optimum day-to-day operations to exceed customers’ expectations
• Increasing production, assets capacity and flexibility while minimizing unnecessary costs and maintaining current quality standards
• Being responsible for production output, product quality and on-time shipping
• Allocating resources effectively and fully utilizing assets to produce optimal results
• Implementing strategies in alignment with strategic manufacturing initiatives set by the higher management
• Monitoring operations and trigger corrective actions
• Collecting and analyzing data to find places of waste or overtime
• Developing systems and processes that track and optimize productivity and standards, metrics and performance targets to ensure effective return on assets
• Staying up to date with latest production management best practices and concepts
• Ensuring all legal health and safety guidelines are followed

 

Manufacturing Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly-skilled and experienced manufacturing manager to oversee our manufacturing processes.

The manufacturing manager’s responsibilities include developing efficient processes, managing teams, ensuring that safety regulations are adhered to, and that production schedules are met.

Our ideal candidate has outstanding organizational and leadership skills, and a firm grasp of manufacturing processes and standards.

Ultimately, the role of the manufacturing manager is to ensure that our manufacturing processes deliver products of maximum quality in a profitable manner.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the entire manufacturing process
• Develop and implement strategies to improve productivity and efficiency
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain a safe and clean work environment
• Monitor the production schedule and ensure deadlines are met
• Hire, train, and supervise manufacturing team members
• Manage budgets and costs associated with manufacturing processes
• Resolve issues and disputes among manufacturing team members
• Implement improvements to manufacturing processes and procedures
• Prepare and present reports on manufacturing operations and progress to senior management
• Ensure quality standards are met at all times

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a manufacturing manager or similar role
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes and industry standards
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Good knowledge of health and safety regulations
• Understanding of quality standards and systems
• Experience with budget and business plan development
• Proficiency with manufacturing management software
• BSc degree in Business Management, Engineering or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Manufacturing Manager
• Work Environment: Manufacturing facility. Some travel may be required for industry events or to visit suppliers.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Manufacturing or Chief Operations Officer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Manufacturing Manager Do?

A Manufacturing Manager oversees the daily operations of manufacturing plants and similar places.

They are responsible for coordinating, planning and directing all the activities related to the production and manufacturing of products.

They often work closely with a team of supervisors and production workers, ensuring that the manufacturing process runs smoothly and effectively.

They also oversee the quality of the product, ensuring it meets the company’s standards and clients’ requirements.

They are also accountable for ensuring that workplace safety rules and regulations are adhered to, preventing any workplace accidents.

Manufacturing Managers are usually involved in the hiring, training, and supervision of staff, as well as setting and managing budgets.

They may also coordinate with different departments such as sales, marketing, or research and development, to implement new strategies or introduce new products.

Their ultimate goal is to increase productivity and profitability while ensuring products are produced efficiently, on time, within budget and to standard.

 

Manufacturing Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Manufacturing Manager should have the skills and qualifications that match your job description, including:

• Strong knowledge of production machinery, processes, and standards to oversee manufacturing operations efficiently.
• Effective leadership and management skills to guide and motivate a team towards achieving production goals.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities to quickly identify and address production issues and bottlenecks.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills to facilitate clear and efficient conversations among team members, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
• Time management skills to ensure that production schedules and deadlines are met.
• Quality focus to monitor product standards and implement quality control programs.
• Understanding of budgeting and performance evaluation to monitor and improve production cost efficiency.
• Strong analytical skills for interpreting complex data and making informed decisions.
• Ability to adhere to and enforce safety standards and protocols within the manufacturing environment.

 

Manufacturing Manager Experience Requirements

Manufacturing Managers are typically expected to have a minimum of 5 years of experience in the manufacturing industry.

This can be accrued through roles such as Production Supervisor, Manufacturing Engineer or Quality Control Specialist.

Hands-on experience with production machinery, quality standards, and understanding production workflows is essential.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are often skilled in managing production lines, troubleshooting equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

They also frequently have experience in project management, staff supervision, and are familiar with lean manufacturing principles and practices.

Those with more than 5 years of experience, often have a track record of successfully overseeing the entire manufacturing process – from supply chain management and raw material procurement to quality control and shipment of finished products.

Professionals with more than 7 years of experience usually possess leadership skills and have experience managing a team.

They are capable of developing strategies to increase productivity, reduce costs, improve safety, and ensure product quality.

These individuals are often well suited for senior roles within the manufacturing management hierarchy.

 

Manufacturing Manager Education and Training Requirements

Manufacturing Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration, industrial engineering, or another relevant field.

They need a solid foundation in areas such as production, operations management, logistics, supply chain, and quality control.

Practical understanding of manufacturing processes and the ability to coordinate and lead teams are also vital.

Some companies may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or industrial management.

This advanced degree may better equip them for dealing with the strategic and financial aspects of the role.

Certifications such as Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management can also be advantageous.

In addition to education, Manufacturing Managers typically need several years of experience in a manufacturing setting.

They might start in roles such as production supervisor or quality control inspector and work their way up.

Continuing education is important in this field due to the rapid advancements in manufacturing technology and process improvement methodologies.

Therefore, many successful Manufacturing Managers participate in ongoing training programs and industry seminars.

 

Manufacturing Manager Salary Expectations

A Manufacturing Manager typically earns an average salary of $105,026 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary significantly depending on the individual’s level of experience, the size and type of the manufacturing plant, and the geographical location.

 

Manufacturing Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a manufacturing manager need?

A manufacturing manager should possess strong leadership and decision-making skills to oversee the production process and ensure that the manufacturing unit is running smoothly.

They also require excellent problem-solving skills to address any issues that may arise during the production process.

Good communication and interpersonal skills are necessary for liaising with other departments, suppliers, and clients.

Additionally, they should have a good understanding of quality control procedures and safety compliance.

 

Do manufacturing managers need a degree?

Most manufacturing managers hold at least a bachelor’s degree in business, industrial management, or a related field.

However, experience in a manufacturing environment is often equally or more important.

Some manufacturing managers may also have advanced degrees in business or industrial management.

 

What should you look for in a manufacturing manager’s resume?

In addition to educational qualifications, look for experience in manufacturing processes, production management, quality control, and safety compliance.

Any experience in managing teams and coordinating with other departments is also beneficial.

Manufacturing managers should also demonstrate knowledge in lean manufacturing and other process improvement methods.

 

What qualities make a good manufacturing manager?

A good manufacturing manager should be a strong leader, capable of motivating their team and making key decisions quickly.

They should also be detail-oriented, ensuring that all aspects of the manufacturing process are running efficiently and effectively.

Good problem-solving skills are crucial for a manufacturing manager, as they must be able to identify and rectify any issues that arise.

Finally, they should be committed to quality and safety, ensuring all manufactured products meet the necessary standards and regulations.

 

Is it difficult to hire manufacturing managers?

Hiring a manufacturing manager can be challenging due to the level of expertise and experience required for the role.

A competitive salary, good working conditions, and opportunities for professional development can make the position more attractive to potential candidates.

Additionally, the evolving nature of manufacturing due to technological advancements means that finding candidates with up-to-date knowledge and skills can be a difficult task.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an insider’s look into what it truly means to be a manufacturing manager.

Surprise!

It’s not just about managing operations.

It’s about orchestrating the symphony of production, one process at a time.

With our dependable manufacturing manager job description template and practical examples, you’re geared up to make a stride.

But why limit yourself?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your indispensable tool for assembling precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every process is a cog in the larger machinery of production.

Let’s drive that production. Together.

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