3rd Shift Supervisor in Cedar Springs, Michigan at J-Star Motion Corporation

3rd Shift Manufacturing Supervisor
Cedar Springs, MI

Why work for J-Star?
J-Star is a first shift, seeking to start a third shift, customer and employee focused, OEM manufacturer of linear actuators and lifting columns located in a beautiful new facility built in 2023. Due to our high standards, our products quickly became globally respected for use in medical and home care equipment. With an annual production capacity of 600,000 actuators - lifting columns and 200,000 control boxes, we have become a leading supplier for companies around the world.

Employment Details:
This position will begin on 1st shift to support training and development.
Transition to 3rd shift will occur based on individual readiness and business needs.
This role is critical to the successful launch of J-Star’s future 3rd shift operations.
This is a salaried, exempt position.

Position Summary:
The 3rd Shift Manufacturing Supervisor is a newly created position supporting J-Star’s strategic expansion to a future 3rd shift operation. This role will be responsible for preparing, launching, and leading the new shift.

Initially, the Supervisor will work on 1st shift to learn J-Star’s products, processes, systems, and team environment. Once fully trained, this individual will transition to establish and lead 3rd shift operations.

This position requires a hands-on leader experienced in starting up or scaling manufacturing departments, with the ability to build structure, develop teams, and drive performance in a new operational environment.

Essential Responsibilities:
Learn all aspects of J-Star manufacturing operations, including production processes, quality standards, safety requirements, and internal customer needs.
Lead the startup, development, and execution of 3rd shift operations, including staffing, workflows, and production planning.
Establish standard operating procedures, training programs, and performance expectations for the new shift.
Supervise, coach, and develop production associates to ensure high levels of safety, quality, and productivity.
Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and quality requirements.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including efficiency gains and waste reduction.
Maintain accurate inventory practices, including cycle counting, reconciliation, and reporting.
Ensure work-in-process (WIP) is organized, labeled, and managed effectively.
Implement and sustain 5S and workplace organization standards.
Monitor production metrics and adjust operations to meet business demands.
Partner with leadership to identify equipment, staffing, and process needs for expansion.
Coordinate effectively with 1st shift leadership to ensure operational continuity.
Conduct performance evaluations and manage employee relations activities.
Review timekeeping/payroll systems and make corrections as necessary.
Education & Experience:
High School diploma or GED required; additional technical education preferred.
5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
Prior supervisory or leadership experience required.
Demonstrated experience starting up or significantly expanding manufacturing lines, departments, or shifts strongly preferred
Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Other Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Knowledge of SAP preferred (proficiency in some ERP system required)
Must be able to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
Must have knowledge of computers, machining, and assembly practices.
Ability to communicate verbally and in writing and make presentations.
Ability to work with vendors, customers, and employees.
Ability to lift 50+ lbs.
Must excel at working in a team environment.
General understanding of CAD and CAM software.

Environmental Conditions:
This job description does not list all duties of the job. Employees may be asked by management to perform other duties as needed. The Company reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. This job description is not a contract for employment and does not infringe upon the Company’s at will employment status.