Company Summary: Centor is a Gerresheimer company. Centor/Gerresheimer is an innovative systems and solutions provider and a global partner for the pharma, biotech and cosmetic industries. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of pharmaceutical containment solutions, drug delivery systems and medical devices as well as solutions for the health industry. The product range includes digital solutions for therapy support, medication pumps, syringes, pens, auto-injectors and inhalers as well as vials, ampoules, tablet containers, infusion, dropper and syrup bottles and more. Centor/Gerresheimer ensures the safe delivery and reliable administration of drugs to the patient. With 35 production sites in 16 countries in Europe, America and Asia, Gerresheimer has a global presence and produces locally for regional markets. With around 12,000 employees, the company generated revenues of around €2bn in 2023. Gerresheimer AG is listed in the MDAX on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ISIN: DE000A0LD6E6).
Position Summary
The Production Manager for 2-Stage Blow PET Moulding oversees all production activities related to stretch blow molding operations for PET containers. This role is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the blow molding area, ensuring safety, quality, efficiency, and on-time delivery in line with customer and business expectations. The successful candidate is a hands-on, pragmatic leader who thrives in a high-volume manufacturing environment and is committed to continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Management
Lead and manage all aspects of 2-stage blow molding operations (preform handling, reheating, stretch blow molding, product ejection).
Schedule and coordinate production to meet customer demand, quality standards, and cost targets.
Ensure efficient use of materials, machines, and labor across shifts.
Monitor cycle times, reject rates, and machine downtime to drive OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).
Leadership & Team Development
Supervise and develop a team of machine operators, technicians, and shift leads.
Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and performance.
Provide training on best practices, troubleshooting, and machine optimization.
Maintenance & Technical Support
Partner with maintenance and engineering to ensure machines are operating at peak condition.
Support changeovers and mold setups, including adjustments of process parameters (heat settings, air pressure, stretch rod timing).
Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for production issues and customer complaints.
Quality & Compliance
Ensure adherence to company and customer quality standards (visual, dimensional, and functional checks).
Conduct audits and collaborate with the Quality team to maintain GMP, ISO, and/or other relevant certifications.
Drive 5S and cleanroom practices where applicable.
Reporting & KPIs
Track and report on key metrics including productivity, scrap rate, downtime, and safety incidents.
Support cost control through material yield optimization and waste reduction.
Required Skills/Abilities
Strong understanding of PET resin behavior, preform handling, and blow mold tooling.
Ability to read technical drawings and production schedules.
Hands-on mechanical aptitude; able to troubleshoot process and equipment issues.
Strong organizational and leadership skills with the ability to coach and motivate teams.
Working knowledge of lean manufacturing, 5S, Six Sigma is a plus.
Proficient in Microsoft Office and production reporting systems (ERP/MES).
Education And Experience
Associate or bachelor’s degree in engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field preferred. Equivalent experience accepted.
Minimum 5 years in PET blow molding, specifically 2-stage stretch blow molding (preferably with Sidel, Krones, Nissei, or similar equipment).
2+ years in a production leadership role.
Salary Range
85K-100K
What We Offer
Total rewards package with compensation
Healthcare
Prescription drug coverage
Flexible spending accounts
Wellness
Disability coverage
401k match
EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
Life insurance
PTO (Paid Time off)
Holidays
Gerresheimer/Centor is an Equal Opportunity Employer and affords equal opportunity to all applicants and employees for all positions without regards to race, color, religion, sex national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
