Plant Manager (Metal Fabrication/Heavy Manufacturing)

Job Summary:
This role demands a visionary leader who can look beyond immediate obstacles to craft and implement long-term strategies that drive organizational success. The Plant Manager must excel at communicating complex ideas clearly to diverse groups and establishing open, effective channels of information across all levels. A hands-on approach and strong relationship-building skills are essential, as is a consistent presence on the shop floor to foster trust and collaboration. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of growth management, particularly within fast-scaling environments such as the 3X initiative, and will demonstrate a steadfast commitment to process discipline and organizational accountability. A solid grasp of financial principles—ability to analyze metrics, interpret ROI, and optimize for cost efficiency—is required. Familiarity with HR practices, especially in people development and succession planning, will further enable support of a high-performing team. The Plant Manager should be adept at influencing and collaborating across organizational boundaries, uniting teams around shared goals and values. A proven track record in talent development and coaching, with the ability to identify and nurture future leaders, is highly valued.

Minimum Qualifications: (Education, Experience, Knowledge, and Skills):

• Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, manufacturing technology, or related field (MBA or technical certifications a plus).
• 10+ years of experience in metal fabrication or heavy manufacturing, with at least 7 years in a plant leadership role.
• Proven track record of leading plant modernization, lean transformations, or operational turnarounds.
• Strong knowledge of fabrication processes and equipment (e.g., CNC, press brake, welding, laser/plasma cutting).
• Experience with ERP/MES systems and data-driven decision-making.
• Lean Six Sigma certification preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and documentation - schematics, assembly drawings, operational manuals, safety rules, and standardized work      instructions.
• Ability to compile data and reports for communicating performance versus goals (on-time, quality levels, etc.)

Key Competencies:

• Transformational Leadership
• Lean Manufacturing & Kaizen
• Change Management• Automation & Industry 4.0
• Team Development & Engagement
• Operational Excellence
• Safety & Compliance

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead Day-to-Day Operations: Oversee and manage all aspects of plant operations, ensuring safety, quality, and productivity targets are met or exceeded.
• Champion Change and Growth: Serve as the driving force and advocate for the 3X growth initiative, actively engaging in strategic planning and execution to triple
  operational capacity.
• Cultural Transformation: Guide the evolution from a traditional “job-shop” approach to efficient, disciplined production, instilling best practices and fostering
  a culture of continuous improvement.
• Lean Manufacturing: Implement and oversee Lean methodologies, working closely with the Lean Team.
• Strategic Communication: Develop and execute effective communication strategies to keep all levels of the organization informed, engaged, and aligned—
  especially regarding the trajectory and progress of the 3X initiative.
• KPI Management: Track and drive performance against key production metrics, ensuring accountability and timely achievement of objectives.
• Visionary Leadership: See, cast, and refine the vision for the plant; translate big picture strategies into actionable, grassroots activities that inspire and mobilize
  teams.
• Relational Leadership: Maintain an active, visible presence on the shop floor; cultivate trust and open communication with all employees, offering mentorship
  and support where needed.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Influence and communicate effectively across all levels—direct reports, senior management, peer leaders at other locations— ensuring cohesion and clarity throughout the organization.
• Financial Acumen: Understand ROI, unit cost versus cost of ownership, and apply this knowledge to prioritize investments and drive operational profitability.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, manufacturing engineering and supply chain teams to optimize product design, production flow, and reduce lead times.

Working Conditions

• This position is on-site 5 days per week.
• Occasional travel may be required for training or meetings.
• Must be able to work flexible hours to accommoda