Operations Manager

At Tenneco, we don't follow industry standards; we set them, and we don't settle for being best-in-class because we hustle to be better than best-in-class. Whether it's our Core Values - radical candor, simplify, organizational velocity, tenacious execution and win - or our Get Stuff Done (GSD) mindset, we're determined to become the most trusted partner and best manufacturer and distributor to the transportation industry.

With a product portfolio as expansive as it is innovative, an obsessive commitment to quality and excellence, and a global presence, we're all about getting stuff done, so we can win.

How do we make it happen?Through the Tenneco Way. Fueled by our Core Values, a winning mindset and a relentless commitment to excellence, the Tenneco Way is how we win. It's what keeps Team Tenneco bold, driven, and unapologetically focused on pushing past limits and redefining success.

Here, you'll work alongside a team of relentless problem-solvers who are committed to making a tangible impact. If you're ready to break boundaries, deliver results, and enjoy the ride along the way, you'll thrive here.

Want to learn more about who we are? Check out our website to discover the Tenneco Way

ABOUT THE ROLE

As Operations Manager in Frankfort, Indiana, you'll lead daily manufacturing operations for automotive sealing products-driving safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance across the plant. You'll own end-to-end operational execution, including production planning, materials flow, equipment reliability, workforce leadership, and continuous improvement. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who can run the day, build the team, and elevate performance through standard work, problem-solving, and relentless follow-through.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead daily production of automotive sealing products (rubber, polymer, and/or metal components), ensuring targets are met for output, scrap, efficiency, and on-time delivery.
• Establish, track, and improve plant KPIs including OEE, cycle time, yield, downtime, and labor utilization.
• Own scheduling, capacity planning, and workflow optimization to support customer requirements and operational velocity.
• Partner with Quality Engineering to maintain compliance with IATF 16949 and ISO 9001.
• Lead root-cause investigation and corrective action using 8D, 5-Why, and Fishbone methodologies for internal and customer issues.
• Support PPAP, FMEA, control plans, and validation processes for new and existing products.
• Lead and develop production supervisors, technicians, and hourly team members through coaching, feedback, and accountability.
• Ensure staffing, training, and skill development plans align with production needs across multi-shift operations.
• Enforce OSHA and company safety standards, championing a zero-incident culture.
• Conduct audits, drive corrective actions, and ensure compliance with environmental requirements.
• Manage budgets and operational cost performance; execute cost-reduction initiatives with discipline and rigor.
• Improve materials flow, WIP management, and inventory accuracy in partnership with Supply Chain.
• Collaborate with Maintenance to minimize downtime and delays through strong reliability practices.
• Lead Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives including 5S, Kaizen, SMED, and TPM.
• Drive automation, process optimization, waste reduction, and adoption of digital tools for production tracking and reporting.
• Partner cross-functionally with Engineering on tooling, new product launches, and process improvements.
• Support customer audits, visits, and technical reviews as needed.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Industrial Technology, or related field.
• 5-10 years of manufacturing experience, preferably in automotive and/or rubber/polymer sealing products.
• Proven leadership experience managing multi-shift operations.
• Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and standardized work methodologies.
• Experience working in an IATF 16949-regulated environment.

• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher).
• Experience with injection molding, extrusion, compression molding, or rubber processing.
• ERP/MRP experience (SAP, Oracle, Plex, or similar).
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

We don't want average. We want exceptional. We want someone who's hungry to build, unafraid to challenge, and bold enough to lead with empathy, speed, and precision. Sound like you? Let us know.

Equal opportunity employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities