Position Title: Production Manager (Business Unit)
Department: Operations
FLSA: Salary, Exempt
Reports To: Director of Operations
The Production Manager oversees a wide range of operational functions to ensure productivity, quality, training, and safety remain fully compliant with all federal and state regulations, as well as internal company policies.
This role manages the entire production floor and is responsible for reviewing incoming work orders, approving or rejecting them, and ensuring accepted orders are completed accurately, safely, and with maximum efficiency.
The Production Manager will generate operational reports, lead regular production meetings, manage workflow, and resolve issues that arise on the shop floor. This individual ensures that all departments confirm product specifications throughout production and maintains alignment between work orders and departmental execution.
Manage the day-to-day operation of the production floor.
Maintain and enforce production quality standards.
Request and manage necessary materials for production staff.
Conduct routine checks in each department to identify safety concerns, workflow effectiveness, or operational issues.
Oversee workflow from pre-press/digital stages through handoff to the production floor.
Approve jobs from the production queue and stage them in the production software system.
Sign off on rework or rejected goods when applicable.
Ensure all departments maintain required quality and performance standards.
Stage jobs beginning at preflight using internal systems and processes.
Lead production meetings and provide updates on job status and workload.
Create documentation, spreadsheets, and tracking reports related to job orders and production procedures.
Ensure all scheduled shipments are prepared and completed on time.
Prepare and deliver daily production reports to senior leadership.
Maintain confidentiality and secure handling of sensitive or protected projects.
Manage employee performance, corrective actions, and regular evaluations.
Direct the daily workload, staffing, and scheduling across all shifts.
Train team members and provide leadership, coaching, and development.
Communicate frequently with the Director of Operations and implement decisions through department leads.
Strong technical aptitude
Excellent verbal and written communication
Problem-solving and analytical skills
Customer service focus
Knowledge of basic industrial safety, health, and environmental practices
Ability to follow proper lifting techniques and request assistance with heavy or oversized materials
As outlined in the essential functions, this position oversees production floor personnel and departmental leads.
This role may require extended hours and occasional weekend work depending on workload and assigned projects.
5+ years of experience in the graphics, print, or related production industry
Minimum 5 years of production management experience
Lean Manufacturing, TQM, Six Sigma training or certification preferred (or equivalent experience)
Forward-thinking mindset with a focus on innovation and process improvement
Availability during off-hours via company-issued communication devices
Strong sense of urgency and time management
Ability to remain calm during high-pressure situations
Strong problem-solving abilities and experience implementing process-based solutions
Ability to lead by example and promote teamwork
Working knowledge of OSHA compliance, industrial safety, and MSDS standards
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate and develop staff
High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective planning abilities
Ability to learn and adopt emerging technologies
Strong documentation and reporting capabilities
Strong understanding of computer and printing terminology
This job description is not exhaustive and may be updated at any time. Additional duties, responsibilities, or activities may be assigned as business needs evolve.
You may contact me directly at E: bill.schellhas@gogpac.com PH: 605-679-9922
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.
