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Manufacturing operations management refers toÌýthe tools and methods to optimize production. This includes managing business resources such as people, technology, equipment, and other resources that improve the efficiency and productivity of the manufacturer. The job of operations management is to oversee the process of transforming resources into goods and services. The role of operations managers in the manufacturing sector includesÌýproduction planning, production control, and quality control.

The Operations Management Concentration provides aÌýholistic perspective on the managerial and organizational systems that are used to make key decisions related to the planning for and day-to-day control of manufacturing operations. Beyond developing competence in analytical and planning skills, particular emphasis is given to the philosophy and methods of lean manufacturing, continuous quality improvement, effective supply chain management and Enterprise Planning.

Entry‑Level Early Management Roles

Typical Colorado Salary Range: $75,000 to $95,000

Typical titles

• Production Supervisor
• Manufacturing Supervisor
• Operations Supervisor

What you do:

• Supervise production teams and shifts
• Ensure safety, quality, and schedule adherence
• Coordinate labor, materials, and equipment
• Support continuous improvement initiatives

Time in role: 1-3 years

Mid‑Level Operations Management

Typical Colorado Salary Range: $96,000 to $123,000

ÌýTypical titles

• Operations Manager
• Manufacturing Operations Manager
• Production Manager

What you do:

• Manage multiple departments or production lines
• Own KPIs for safety, quality, delivery, and cost
• Budget and resource allocation
• Drive Lean, Six Sigma, and process improvements

Time in role: 3 – 7 years

Senior Operations and Plant Leadership

Typical Colorado Salary Range: $127,000 to 165,000

Typical titles

• Senior Operations Manager
• Plant Manager
• Director of Operations

What you do:

• Full site or multi‑site operational control
• P&L ownership and capital planning
• Long‑term capacity, workforce, and supply‑chain strategy
• Lead leadership teams and cross‑functional managers

Time in role: 7 – 12 years

Salary Data: Salary.com, Indeed, Glassdoor and ZipRecruiter