Production Manager

Position Summary

Interstate Graphics is seeking an experienced and hands-on Production Manager to oversee daily manufacturing operations and ensure efficient, high-quality production across all departments. This role is responsible for managing people, processes, schedules, and equipment to meet customer requirements, delivery timelines, and company quality standards. The ideal candidate is a strong leader with printing/manufacturing experience who thrives in a fast-paced environment and drives continuous improvement. The salary range for this position is $85,000 to $95,000 with possible bonus, depending on experience.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Operations

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee all production activities to meet deadlines, quality standards, and cost targets.
• Develop and manage daily and weekly production schedules based on order volume and capacity.
• Monitor workflow across departments (printing, finishing, packing, shipping) to ensure efficiency and on-time delivery.
• Troubleshoot production issues, equipment downtime, and bottlenecks; implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with estimating, sales, and customer service to align production priorities with customer expectations.

Leadership & Team Management

• Supervise, train, and motivate production supervisors and hourly staff.
• Assign labor resources effectively and adjust staffing levels as needed.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide coaching, feedback, and disciplinary action when necessary.
• Promote a positive, accountable, and safety-focused work environment.

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Ensure compliance with company quality standards and customer specifications.
• Work with quality control to reduce rework, waste, and errors.
• Implement lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Track and analyze production metrics (efficiency, scrap, downtime, on-time delivery).

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce all safety policies and OSHA requirements.
• Conduct regular safety meetings and audits.
• Ensure proper use and maintenance of equipment and PPE.

Inventory & Equipment

• Coordinate with purchasing and inventory teams to ensure materials are available for production.
• Oversee proper maintenance and care of production equipment.
• Participate in capital equipment planning and process improvements.

 Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in a production or manufacturing management role (printing industry experience strongly preferred).
• Proven ability to lead teams in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of production scheduling, workflow optimization, and quality control.
• Experience with printing equipment, finishing processes, and manufacturing operations.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to read and interpret job tickets, production reports, and schedules.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and production/ERP systems.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Experience in commercial printing, large-format, signage, or related graphics manufacturing.
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience.
• Strong communication skills with both shopfloor and office teams.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k) with company match
• Opportunities for growth within a stable, family-owned organization