Plant Operations Manager

BASIC FUNCTION

The Plant Operations Manager oversees the daily execution of manufacturing strategies to ensure peak operational performance. Reporting to the Plant Manager, this role leads a team of supervisors to drive a culture of high performance and continuous improvement. The primary goal is to exceed benchmarks in Safety, Quality, Labor Efficiency, OEE, Material Utilization, Sustainability, and Cost Control.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Operational Leadership

• Strategy Execution: Plan and direct all manufacturing activities to meet or exceed production goals.
• Workflow Optimization: Structure processes and staffing levels to ensure maximum output with minimal waste.
• Quality & Compliance: Maintain strict production conditions to meet customer specs and regulatory requirements.
• Resource Management: Analyze material usage (virgin vs. regrind) to optimize cost and product integrity.

People & Culture

• Team Development: Direct and mentor Production Supervisors, ensuring alignment with key plant metrics.
• Safety & Morale: Foster a "Safety First" culture that promotes a positive, inclusive, and high-energy work environment.
• Talent Pipeline: Manage staffing levels through proactive recruitment, interviewing, and comprehensive training programs.

Continuous Improvement (CI)

• Operational Excellence: Identify and champion CI initiatives, leveraging Lean or Six Sigma methodologies to reduce costs and boost efficiency.
• Innovation: Propose and implement cost-effective upgrades to production processes and equipment.
• OEE Focus: Maximize Overall Equipment Effectiveness across all lines through strategic scheduling and resource allocation.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of Thermoforming and Extrusion processes. Specific experience with CPET, PET, or PP materials is highly preferred.
• Decision Making: Strong ability to make data-driven decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and engage staff at all levels.
• Drive: A results-oriented leader with high personal initiative and a sense of ownership over the plant's success.
• Tech Savvy: Proficient in Microsoft Office (specifically Excel for data analysis) and ERP systems.

REQUIRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Education: Bachelor's degree in manufacturing, Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Experience: 10+ years in manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a formal management role.
• Project Management: Proven track record of managing equipment installations or large-scale process improvement projects.
• Hands-on Background: Direct experience operating or troubleshooting Thermoforming and Extrusion machinery.

OTHER

• Maintain compliance with all company policies regarding safety, product legality (SQF/BRC), security, and regulatory standards.