Operations Lead jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

LOCATION:  Cedar Rapids

REPORTS TO:  Department Lead

SUPERVISION:  Production Associates

The Operations Lead is the key on-site contact for any site emergencies. They will also provide leadership for off-shift, weekend, and holiday plant operations. Other responsibilities include but are not limited to supporting growth initiatives and collaborating and communicating across functions.

As an Operations Lead, your responsibilities will include:

• Key internal and external contact in the event of any environmental, health, and safety-related emergency situations (Incident Commander).
• Provide first responder services to the extent of his/her training and qualification as determined by the EHS group and notify the appropriate parties inside and/or outside the Company should the situation require.
• Responsible for management and resource allocation regarding emergency maintenance activities for the facility.
• Lead efficient and effective facility operation. This involves maintaining oversight of ongoing operations; recognizing undesired operating conditions or potentially undesirable operating trends; and following up with the appropriate personnel to facilitate timely and proper resolution.
• Identify and communicate potential and ongoing process improvement projects in all areas of the manufacturing process.
• Support the management team in following through on information sharing, training, capital project implementation, and other initiatives designed to improve plant operating effectiveness and efficiency.
• Support key growth initiatives and objectives.
• Work with the Operations, EHS, and Engineering teams to understand and add value to the business goals and direction.
• Work closely with the site workforce to locate opportunities for improved safety, operational efficiencies, and cost savings.
• Maintain a productive and effective relationship with all members of the team as well as company affiliates, to ensure a clear rapid flow of information.  Act as the ambassador for the company in team settings and encourage product collaboration.
• Be a member of and/or lead committees and teams.
• The ability to handle a large variety of tasks and information in a fast-paced environment where timely decision-making from often limited data and research time is critical.
• Consistently focuses on achieving strong results, despite balancing multiple, complex demands.
• The ability to regularly identify areas that can be improved and constructively propose new solutions that increase value and improve business performance.
• Strong analytical skills.
• The ability to operate as a strong team player and be comfortable in a matrix organization.

Qualified candidates will have:

• Bachelor’s degree or the knowledge and skills normally acquired by completing such a degree.
• At least 3 years of manufacturing experience, including experience in leading a team of direct reports.
• Knowledge/experience in using Microsoft Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and/or other software tools.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present shift reports, lead meetings, and review/write SOP’s.