Operations Manager 2-Stage Blow PET Molding

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.*

You should be proficient in:

Leadership / People Management
Bachelor's Degree
Continuous Improvement
Facilities Maintenance Experience
Supervisory Experience
Lean Manufacturing Principles
ISO 9001 Certification Experience
Automotive Manufacturing Systems
Experience in a Manufacturing Environment
Injection Molding Experience
Blow Molding Experience