Production Manager

Overview
Production Manager (Textile Manufacturing) at Planet Protector Group, Altona North, Melbourne, Australia. Direct report to Head of Operational Excellence. Employment Type: Full-time. Start Date: Immediate (target September 2025).
About Planet Protector Group
Planet Protector Group is an Australian manufacturer accelerating Australia's transition within the circular economy by upcycling waste streams into high-value non-woven and felted products. Our facility in Altona North is a state-of-the-art textile operation focusing on turning textile waste into products for industries including building insulation, acoustic insulation, bedding, automotive, and packaging.
Position Description
Title:
Production Manager (Textile Manufacturing)
Reports to:
Head of Operational Excellence
Location:
Altona North, Melbourne
Start Date:
Immediate (target September 2025)
Summary
The Production Manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations at the Altona North textile manufacturing facility. The role ensures production runs safely, efficiently, and in alignment with quality and sustainability standards. The Production Manager will lead a multi-shift team, manage production schedules, troubleshoot equipment issues, and drive continuous improvement. This position involves close collaboration with the Quality team to ensure compliance and support ongoing process improvements. The ideal candidate is a hands-on, solutions-oriented leader with extensive textile manufacturing experience and a strong commitment to safety and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Production Planning & Operational Excellence
Develop and manage daily and weekly production schedules to meet delivery timelines and customer requirements
Supervise the operation of all manufacturing equipment at the Altona North site, ensuring optimal performance
Monitor equipment performance, identify inefficiencies, and implement improvements to reduce downtime and increase yield
Lead and coordinate effective shift handovers between teams
Oversee the implementation of standardized operating procedures across all shifts
Implement preventative maintenance programs and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity
Continuously improve operator standard work processes and efficiency
Ensure all operators maintain housekeeping standards to keep the facility organized and safe
Develop and embed a robust 5S program on the shop floor
Safety, Quality & Sustainability
Enforce a strong safety-first culture on the factory floor, including proper use of PPE and adherence to all hygiene and safety protocols
Ensure compliance with WHS regulations and standards (including ISO 45001), and the company's quality and environmental policies
Lead the conduct of Job Safety Analyses (JSAs), risk assessments, and contractor inductions
Identify and mitigate workplace hazards, implementing measures that reduce risk scores
Maintain adherence to quality standards and drive sustainability initiatives to reduce waste, energy usage, and emissions
Lead and manage a team of production operators and shift supervisors across a rotating 3-shift roster
Conduct toolbox talks, performance reviews, and training sessions to upskill staff and maintain open communication
Foster an inclusive, collaborative, and results-driven team culture
Support workforce planning, including recruitment, succession planning, and staff development
Coach and mentor staff in lean manufacturing, root cause analysis, and GMP principles
Oversee external contractors on site with proper safety and quality sign-offs
Process Control, Reporting & Metrics
Maintain accurate production records (batch logs, yield, downtime, waste data) for all shifts
Implement and analyze KPIs to track production output, efficiency, and quality
Prepare and submit weekly and monthly production performance reports
Perform root-cause analysis and lead corrective action plans for production issues or quality deviations
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work with Supply Chain, Warehouse, and Planning to manage raw material flow, inventory, and stock levels
Coordinate with the Quality Manager and team on inspections, audits, and compliance
Collaborate with R&D and Product Development on new fiber blends and product optimization
Assist in annual budget preparation and management for the production department
Lead cost-saving, efficiency, and waste-reduction initiatives
Monitor labor, material, and utility usage to identify cost-improvement opportunities
Recommend operational improvements to enhance productivity and profitability
Qualifications & Experience
Experience: Minimum 5 years in a production leadership role within textile or nonwoven manufacturing
Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of nonwoven production processes (e.g., needle-punching, thermal bonding) and related machinery
Leadership: Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams in a fast-paced environment
Safety & Quality: Knowledge of WHS standards (ISO 45001) and quality management systems; lean manufacturing principles
Problem-Solving: Hands-on troubleshooting skills with equipment maintenance and process improvement
Qualifications: Relevant qualifications in manufacturing, engineering, operations or related discipline (trade certification or tertiary degree)
Communication: Excellent English communication skills
Computer Skills: Proficient with MS Office; ability to learn ERP/production software
Educational: Bachelor's degree in chemical, process, industrial, or mechanical engineering (preferred
Familiarity with ERP systems, inventory control, and digital production planning tools
Experience with cross-functional projects involving R&D, product development, and/or supply chain optimization
Working Conditions
Full-time role based on-site at the Altona North facility
Rotating 3-shift roster (Day 7:00–15:00; Afternoon 15:00–23:00; Night 23:00–07:00)
Regular presence on the factory floor across shifts
Driver's license beneficial due to limited public transport access
Competitive remuneration commensurate with experience
Potential for career progression as Planet Protector Group grows
Salary paid weekly via EFT
Superannuation contributions at 12% of gross salary
Full-time benefits including paid leave entitlements
Six-month probationary period
International Candidates:
Employer-sponsored visa with pathway to Permanent Residency in Australia
Enquiries
Please email
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