Production Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the rapidly evolving manufacturing industry, the role of a production manager is more crucial than ever.

As the industry continues to grow, the demand for skilled individuals who can effectively manage, streamline, and enhance our production processes has significantly increased.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s really expected from a production manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect job description,
• Or just curious about the intricacies of production management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable production manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Production Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Production Managers oversee the planning and coordination of manufacturing processes.

They ensure that goods and services are produced efficiently, that they are of the right quality, quantity, and cost, and that they are produced on time, to the satisfaction of the customer.

They often have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Plan and draw up a production schedule
• Set and implement quality control policies
• Ensure that the production is cost effective
• Monitor the production processes and adjust schedules as needed
• Oversee the production process, ensuring that it runs smoothly and according to schedule
• Manage the production budget and make sure the company is hitting its target production volumes
• Work closely with other departments such as procurement, quality control, and human resources
• Review worker performance and identify training needs
• Implement and enforce health and safety protocols
• Ensure that finished products meet quality standards and customer expectations

 

Production Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a capable and dynamic Production Manager to oversee our manufacturing processes.

The Production Manager’s responsibilities include ensuring that production meets health, sanitation, and quality standards set by the company, industry, and government.

You would also be coordinating production schedules to meet customer delivery requirements and best utilize the company’s productive capacity.

Our ideal candidate has experience with lean manufacturing principles and a strong understanding of the production process.

Ultimately, the role of the Production Manager is to ensure that all aspects of production are carried out efficiently and effectively to meet business and customer requirements.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, direct and run optimum day-to-day operations to exceed our customers’ expectations
• Monitor production orders, schedules, quality and costs
• Develop and implement a lean manufacturing strategy
• Ensure health and safety regulations are met
• Organizing the repair and routine maintenance of production equipment
• Increase production, assets capacity and flexibility while minimizing unnecessary costs and maintaining current quality standards
• Collect and analyze data to find places of waste or overtime
• Work with managers effectively to execute the policies and goals of the organization

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Production Manager or similar role
• Experience in using various types of manufacturing machinery and tools
• Organizational and leadership abilities
• Understanding of quality standards and health & safety regulations
• Knowledge of performance evaluation and budgeting concepts
• Experience in reporting on key production metrics
• BSc/Ba in business administration or relevant field

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Production Manager
• Work Environment: This job operates in a plant environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines, and standard manufacturing equipment such as forklifts, conveyors, safety gear.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Operations or the Plant Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 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 Production Manager Do?

Production Managers play a crucial role in manufacturing and service industries.

They oversee the planning, coordination, and control of manufacturing processes.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure goods are produced efficiently, at the right quality, quantity, and cost.

They also coordinate with various departments like procurement, warehouse, and quality control to ensure smooth production processes.

They are involved in the pre-production stage as well, involving themselves in product design and researching new technologies and methods to make the production process more efficient.

Production Managers are responsible for drawing up production schedules, setting budgets, and ensuring deadlines are met.

They monitor the production process, make adjustments as necessary, and solve problems that might occur during production.

They also ensure safety standards and regulations are adhered to prevent accidents and protect the workers’ health.

Plus, they maintain records and report on various aspects of production, including material or resource usage, production costs, and performance against the production schedule.

Their job also involves managing staff, selecting and training them, conducting performance reviews, and motivating them to meet production targets.

In some organizations, Production Managers may also be involved in the marketing and selling of products.

 

Production Manager Qualifications and Skills

Production Managers should possess a combination of technical knowledge, managerial skills, and industry experience to ensure that production processes run smoothly and efficiently.

These include:

• Strong leadership skills to manage and motivate a team, ensuring everyone is performing their duties effectively.
• Comprehensive understanding of production procedures and ability to implement the most efficient practices.
• Problem-solving abilities to quickly identify and address any issues that may arise in the production process.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills to manage production schedules, resources, and deadlines.
• Knowledge of quality standards, health and safety regulations, and legal requirements relating to production.
• Ability to monitor the production process, making adjustments as needed to meet productivity targets.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively liaise with different departments, staff, suppliers, and customers.
• Financial and budgeting skills to manage costs, prepare budgets, and assess the economic viability of new projects.
• Knowledge and experience with industry-specific software and technology.

 

Production Manager Experience Requirements

The Production Manager role typically requires several years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through an internship or part-time role in production or operations management.

These professionals also gain invaluable on-the-job experience in roles such as Production Supervisor, Quality Control Inspector, or other roles directly related to manufacturing and production.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience would have developed their practical skills and knowledge in production management, process improvement, and supply chain management.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often considered for a Production Manager role.

They may have demonstrated leadership skills, have experience managing a team, and may have been responsible for key decisions in their previous roles.

In addition, a Production Manager may be required to have specific certifications such as Lean Six Sigma, or a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, which demonstrate an advanced understanding of production management concepts and methodologies.

 

Production Manager Education and Training Requirements

Production Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, industrial management, logistics, or a related field.

They also need a strong background in manufacturing processes, product development, and quality control.

An understanding of the principles of Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, and other production optimization methods is often required.

Some roles, particularly those in large or specialized manufacturing sectors, may require Production Managers to hold a master’s degree in industrial management, business administration or a similar discipline.

In addition to formal education, hands-on experience in production roles is usually essential, as this equips them with practical understanding of the production floor challenges.

Many Production Managers also seek certification from recognized bodies such as The Association for Operations Management (APICS) to enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest industry practices.

Possessing a master’s degree and/or certification may also demonstrate a candidate’s dedication to continuous learning and their potential for leadership.

 

Production Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Production Manager is $81,865 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary greatly based on experience, industry, and location.

A highly experienced Production Manager in a high-demand industry and a prime location can earn significantly more.

 

Production Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Production Manager need?

Production Managers need a combination of technical and leadership skills.

They need to understand the production process, be able to manage a diverse team, and possess strong problem-solving abilities.

Knowledge of quality control processes, budgeting and production planning are also essential.

They also need strong communication skills to liaise with various departments and stakeholders.

 

Do Production Managers need a degree?

While not all roles require it, a bachelor’s degree in business administration, industrial engineering, or a related field is often preferred for Production Manager positions.

Some companies may also value work experience in a related field or specific industry certifications over formal education.

 

What should you look for in a Production Manager resume?

A Production Manager’s resume should highlight their experience in managing production processes, overseeing staff, and meeting production goals.

It should also demonstrate their ability to work within budgets, manage resources, and improve efficiency.

Any experience with specific manufacturing software or technology should also be noted.

 

What qualities make a good Production Manager?

A good Production Manager is a strong leader with excellent problem-solving abilities.

They should be comfortable making decisions under pressure and be able to adapt to changes in the production process.

Good Production Managers are also detail-oriented, ensuring that all aspects of production meet the required standards.

They should also be good communicators, able to coordinate with different teams and departments.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Production Manager?

The difficulty of hiring a Production Manager depends largely on the specific industry and requirements of the role.

It can be challenging to find candidates with the right combination of technical knowledge, leadership skills, and experience.

It’s important to have a clear understanding of what you’re looking for in a Production Manager and to communicate this effectively in the job description.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the lid on what it truly means to be a Production Manager.

Guess what?

It’s not just about overseeing production.

It’s about spearheading the creation of goods, orchestrating each step of the production process.

With our comprehensive production manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re equipped to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for crafting detailed job listings or refining your resume to absolute precision.

Remember:

Every step in the production process contributes to the end product.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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