Position Summary:
The Operations Manager 2-Stage Blow PET Molding 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:
90k – 110k
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
