Production Manager Jobs

If you’re a natural leader with a passion for efficiency and quality, Production Manager jobs present an exciting opportunity to take charge within Scotland’s expanding manufacturing and industrial sectors. Production Managers play a crucial role in ensuring that operations run smoothly, overseeing teams, managing resources, and maintaining high standards of output across all stages of production.

At Stafffinders, we work with trusted manufacturing employers across, helping experienced managers and ambitious professionals take the next step in their production careers. Whether you’re from an engineering, food manufacturing, or industrial background, our specialist consultants can help you find a role that perfectly matches your leadership style and professional goals.

What Does a Production Manager Do?

A Production Manager is responsible for coordinating and controlling manufacturing processes to deliver products efficiently, safely, and to the highest standard. These professionals balance people management with strategic planning, ensuring operations stay on schedule, within budget, and aligned with company objectives. Typical responsibilities of a Production Manager include:

• Planning and organising production schedules to meet client demand.

• Managing teams of supervisors, operators, and production staff.

• Monitoring output levels and implementing process improvements.

• Ensuring health, safety, and quality compliance across production areas.

• Managing budgets, inventory, and resource allocation effectively.

• Analysing performance data and identifying opportunities for efficiency gains.

• Liaising with other departments, including engineering, logistics, and quality assurance.

Production Managers are central to a company’s success, working closely with senior leadership to drive productivity, profitability, and continuous improvement within manufacturing operations.

Skills and Qualities for Production Manager Jobs

To succeed as a Production Manager, you’ll need a strong mix of technical expertise, leadership ability, and commercial awareness. Employers look for professionals who can make data-driven decisions, motivate teams, and maintain focus in fast-paced manufacturing environments.

Key skills and qualities include:

• Proven experience managing production teams within a manufacturing or engineering setting.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement techniques.

• Good knowledge of quality management systems and health and safety regulations.

• Analytical mindset with a focus on efficiency, cost control, and performance metrics.

• Ability to adapt to new technologies and evolving production methods.

• A degree or HNC/HND in engineering, manufacturing, or production management is often beneficial.

Training and Career Progression

A career in production management offers fantastic long-term opportunities for growth. Many professionals begin their journey as Production Supervisors or Team Leaders, progressing into management roles as they develop leadership and technical expertise.

With experience, Production Managers can advance into senior roles such as:

• Operations Manager

• Manufacturing Manager

• Plant Manager

• Head of Production or Operations Director

Further training in areas such as lean manufacturing, project management, or health and safety leadership can also strengthen your career prospects and open up progression routes into broader operational or strategic roles.

Lead the way in Scotland’s manufacturing future, explore Production Manager jobs with Stafffinders today and discover a role where your leadership can truly make an impact.