Operations Manager
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 26, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 22, 2026.
Job Title: Operations Manager
Location: Kalamazoo, MI
About the Company:
IPS Corporation is a global, market-leading provider of Water and Flow Management Solutions and Specialty Adhesives Solutions for applications where failure is not an option. Founded in 1954 in Los Angeles, CA, IPS began by producing clear cements for laminating acrylic sheet for aircraft canopies. We were first to produce reliable cement for use with PVC, CPVC, and ABS pipe and fittings, and first to introduce plastic recessed washing machine and ice maker outlet boxes. Since then, we have expanded our offering to more than 10,000+ products and solutions across multiple fast-growth industries such as residential and commercial construction, irrigation, pool & spa, marine or industrial manufacturing.
Today our industry leading products are proudly manufactured at facilities throughout the world and available through a nationwide network of customer-focused distributors. We offer premium brands, world-class customer service, seamless processes, and a global supply chain. IPS, through its three operating companies, operates 13 manufacturing plants in the US, Europe and China supporting sales to over 85 countries.
IPS Corporation is a portfolio company that is part of Centerbridge Partners. Centerbridge Partners, L.P. is a private investment management firm employing a flexible approach across investment disciplines - private equity, private credit and real estate - in an effort to develop the most attractive opportunities for its investors. The Firm was founded in 2005 and has approximately $36 billion in capital under management with offices in New York and London. Centerbridge is dedicated to partnering with world-class management teams across targeted industry sectors and geographies. For more information, please visit www.centerbridge.com.
About the Role:
In this Kalamazoo, MI based role, the Operations Manager will report to the Plant Manager in a hands-on position responsible for all operational activities. The Operations Manager will interact with all areas of the plant, raw materials, packaging, shipping, and quality assurance. In addition, they'll have direct reports, so prior managerial and leadership experience is required.
Key Responsibilities
- Determine work volume, prepare work schedules, and expedite workflow to ensure maximum cost effectiveness
- Maintain workflow by monitoring all steps of the process, equipment and resources
- Facilitate corrections to malfunctions within the production process
- Maintain a safe and clean work environment by educating and directing personnel on the use of equipment, and resources
- Ensure proper operation of equipment
- Maintain a positive and motivating work environment
- Resolve personnel problems by investigating issues, identifying solutions, recommending action
- Travel up to 10%
Required Experience
- Minimum of 5 years of supervisory experience in a manufacturing, production, and warehouse environment
- Prior experience and willingness to be a very hands-on, working supervisor
- Ability to work a flexible schedule as production demand requires
- Able to adjust the process variables to maintain quality production, adjust to changes in workflow, and prioritize as needed, to meet deadlines
- Proficient at routine mathematics, which includes addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
- Able to operate forklifts, hoists, and other motorized equipment to transport material, fill
Preferred Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent work experience and/or training
- Highly organized and excellent multi-tasker
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
- Strong leadership & problem-solving skills
- Strong technical troubleshooting skills; technical background highly desired
- Computer literate with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and have experience in warehouse management systems
Our Offer:
We're a rapidly growing midsized company with a customer-centric mentality operating fast and lean. We think big, embrace problem solving, and believe our proven business system gives us a competitive edge in the markets we play. Through experience in this role, mentoring and via formal instruction, we will grow your career and develop you based off your strengths and interests.
A career with IPS Corporation will push you and challenge you, providing growth opportunities and the prospects to advance your career. If you are a driven performer, you will work with committed, like-minded people, giving you the support to reach your full potential.
- Competitive Compensation Package
- Insurance Benefits - Medical, Dental, Vision
- Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Voluntary Benefits - Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident
- Basic Life Insurance with Dependent Coverage Optional
- 401(k) with Company Match
- Vacation and Sick Leave
- Short Term & Long-Term Disability
- Tuition Assistance Program
- Employee Assistance Program
- Professional Development Opportunities