Operations Manager
OUR HERITAGE BENEFITS YOUR FUTURE! Here at TWIN DISC, we have a proud history of developing and pioneering transmission and propulsion solutions for equipment that fuels the world.
Over the years, we’ve built a strong company that is centered on innovation and employee ingenuity making us an industry leader and respected throughout the markets we serve.
As we continue our global expansion, we are looking for talented individuals to join our team.
The Senior Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all operational functions within the production, warehouse, and distribution areas to ensure the efficient, safe, and cost-effective delivery of high-quality products. This role leads and develops a diverse team, drives continuous improvement initiatives, manages key performance metrics, and ensures compliance with regulatory standards. The Senior Operations Manager serves as a critical link between frontline teams, senior leadership, customers, and other stakeholders, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and operational excellence.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.
Education and/or Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in business, Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations Management, or a related field; MBA is a plus.
7–110 years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing, warehousing, or distribution operations.
Demonstrated success leading cross-functional teams and managing performance in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.
Experience working in FDA-regulated, GMP, ISO 13485, OSHA, or other compliance-driven environments.
Computer Skills:
Proficient in ERP systems (preferably JDE) for managing production planning, material flow, and cost control
Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite
Experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).
Proficient in data analysis and summarization to drive action
Communication Skills:
Ability to present complex ideas, anticipate objections, and influence others to adopt a different view and/or approach
Excellent written communication for reports, procedures, and cross-functional updates
Experienced in coaching and feedback to develop teams and foster a culture of continuous improvement
Demonstrated ability to manage conflict, coach underperformance, and build team morale.
Skilled at writing SOPs, performance reviews, audit documentation, and operational reports.
Technical Requirements:
Broad knowledge of business functions, including safety, quality, production operations, accounting,
inventory management, cost control/profit and loss management, and shipping
Ability to read technical drawings and specifications
Knowledge of project management processes
Ability to apply Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen methodologies for continuous improvement.
Experienced structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., PDCA, DMAIC, A3) to identify issues, implement corrective actions, and sustain improvements
Supervisory experience, including coaching, directing, and motivating associates
Knowledgeable of OSHA/Safety requirements and appropriate Environmental standards
Working knowledge of production planning, inventory control, and just-in-time (JIT) practices.
Familiarity with preventive maintenance systems and root cause analysis (e.g., 5 Whys, FMEA).
Work Environment:
Manufacturing facility with frequent presence on the plant floor
Racine, WI
Specialized Knowledge:
Thorough understanding of Transmission, Marine and Industrial assembly and testing processes
Knowledgeable of machining cells operations
Understanding of optimal material handling and warehouse operation functions
Understanding of Lean tools such as Value Stream Mapping (VSM), 5S, Kanban, Pull Systems, Takt Time, and Flow.
Understanding of material requirements planning (MRP) and shop floor control systems to ensure production alignment and inventory accuracy.
In-depth understanding of operational excellence frameworks and workforce planning.
Knowledge of FDA, GMP, ISO 13485, and other compliance requirements, including documentation protocols.
Skilled in developing metrics dashboards and driving accountability to KPIs (Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, Inventory).
Proven ability to lead initiatives in process standardization, cost reduction, and quality improvement.
Expertise in customer relationship management and resolving escalated service issues.
Other Requirements:
Ability to identify and analyze operational data to solve unique and complex problems
Excellent organization, communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills required with ability to foster teamwork
Manage daily operations across production, warehouse, and distribution to ensure efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery aligned with company goals and customer needs.
Lead and develop cross-functional teams by setting performance standards, conducting evaluations, and promoting a positive, accountable work culture.
Monitor and analyze key performance metrics for safety, quality, cost, delivery, and inventory; use data to identify improvements and implement corrective actions.
Plan and optimize workforce management, including labor forecasting, scheduling, and cross-training to maximize productivity and support employee development.
Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements such as FDA, OSHA, GMP, and ISO; maintain documentation and prepare for audits and inspections.
Drive continuous improvement efforts through Lean, Six Sigma, or other methodologies to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve processes.
Oversee maintenance and equipment reliability, coordinating preventive maintenance and responding to downtime to keep operations running smoothly.
Manage budgets and control costs, including operating expenses and capital projects, while maintaining safety, quality, and delivery standards.
Serve as liaison with stakeholders, resolving escalated issues and maintaining strong relationships with leadership, customers, vendors, and regulatory bodies.
Promote a culture of safety through training, audits, and proactive risk management to minimize incidents and ensure a safe working environment.
Benefits includes: Health, Dental, Vision, Disability & Life Insurance; Flexible Spending Account, Health Savings Account, 401(k)+Match, Corporate Bonus, Vacation, 13 Paid Holidays, which includes Christmas Shutdown, Tuition Reimbursement
This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential job functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.
In the performance of their respective tasks and duties, all employees are expected to perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision, interact professionally with other employees, customers (internal and external) and suppliers and work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and the organization.