Job Description

JOB PURPOSE
Responsible for leading production operations across one or more manufacturing departments to achieve safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity objectives. This role provides leadership to the production supervisory team, ensures alignment of resources and operational priorities, and drives continuous improvement to support business and customer requirements.
JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Production Operations Management (30%):
Lead production operations across assigned manufacturing departments to achieve safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and customer service objectives.
2. Workforce Leadership & Department Performance (25%):
Direct the performance of production supervisors and departmental teams to ensure effective workforce utilization, operational execution, and achievement of departmental goals.
3. Operational Planning & Resource Management (20%):
Manage labor, equipment, materials, and production resources to support manufacturing requirements, balanced workflow, and efficient utilization of departmental capacity.
4. Safety, Quality & Regulatory Compliance (15%):
Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, quality requirements, and applicable regulatory obligations while maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
5. Continuous Improvement & Cost Performance (10%):
Drive operational improvement initiatives that enhance productivity, reduce waste, improve operational efficiency, and support achievement of cost objectives.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES (IF APPLICABLE)
1. Accountable for team performance and development
2. Leads hiring decisions, succession planning, and talent development initiatives
3. Establishes performance expectations and accountability standards
4. Drives employee engagement and retention strategies
5. Owns execution of departmental goals and aligns team objectives with company strategy
6. Develops and manages budgets, resources, and operational plans
7. Drives cross-functional process improvement initiatives aligned with departmental goals
8. Analyzes operation and financial data to establish KPIs, track performance, and guide decision-making

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
• 7-10 years of experience in manufacturing, operations, or related role, including at least 2 years of experience in a supervisory role
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, operations management, business, or a related field required
• Experience leading production operations in an investment casting or related manufacturing environment strongly preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
• Thorough knowledge of manufacturing operations, production processes, and workflow management
• Thorough knowledge of safety, quality, and continuous improvement principles
• Working knowledge of labor planning, resource allocation, and production scheduling concepts
• Strong leadership, coaching, and employee development skills
• Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to analyze operational data and make sound business decisions
• Ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
WORKING CONDITIONS
• Primarily onsite in a manufacturing environment
• Frequent standing, walking, and movement throughout production areas
• Exposure to noise, heat, machinery, and industrial materials
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in designated production areas
• Frequent interaction with employees, supervisors, managers, and support functions
• May require schedule flexibility, including support for off-shift and weekend operations as business needs dictate
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. The company reserves the right to change job duties at any time.

Why Join Hitchiner?
• Mission-critical manufacturing: We use advanced automation and cutting edge equipment to support industries where precision and reliability matter.
• Internal mobility: We deeply invest in our people, offering training and leadership development opportunities so that employees can grow their careers with us.
• We win together: All full-time employees are eligible to participate in our annual profit-sharing bonus.
• Beautiful location: Fully updated and modernized buildings on a campus offering an onsite restaurant and gym.
Employee Benefits
Full time employees may elect to participate in a number of benefit programs, including Hitchiner’s Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans, flexible spending accounts, and 401(k) Employee Retirement Contribution Plan. The Company provides employees with basic company-paid short-term, long-term, and basic life/AD&D insurance.
Employees also have access to education and tuition reimbursement, wellness rewards, Employee Assistance Program, and our free onsite fitness center.
About Hitchiner
Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Milford, New Hampshire, Hitchiner Manufacturing is the premier supplier of high-volume, complex thin-wall investment castings and fully finished casting-based components to the automotive, aerospace and defense markets.
Additional Information
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Hitchiner Manufacturing is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status.

This position involves access to technical data, materials, and/or hardware subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Employees must be able to meet export control eligibility requirements as a condition of employment. Who is considered a U.S. Person? A U.S. Person can be one of the following: U.S. Citizen, a U.S. lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder), a refugee or asylee admitted under the U.S. law, or certain protected individuals under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). Learn more about the ITAR here. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Hitchiner participates in the E-Verify program to confirm work authorization for all new hires in accordance with federal law.