Job Description

A leading manufacturing organization is seeking a Plant Manager to lead all aspects of operations at a high-volume production facility in Southern California. This role is responsible for driving performance across production, safety, quality, maintenance, inventory, workforce development, and financial results.

The Plant Manager will ensure the facility consistently meets operational, financial, and customer expectations while maintaining full compliance with all applicable federal, state, and California regulations.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring a strong background in manufacturing operations, team development, and continuous improvement within a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Provide strategic direction and daily leadership for plant operations
• Develop and lead a high-performing cross-functional leadership team
• Establish performance expectations and drive accountability at all levels
• Manage operating plans, budgets, and long-term improvement initiatives

Operational Excellence

• Oversee daily operations to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets
• Lead lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives
• Partner with cross-functional teams to support process and product improvements
• Ensure equipment uptime through effective maintenance strategies

Safety & Compliance

• Maintain compliance with all applicable Cal/OSHA, OSHA, and environmental regulations
• Promote and lead a strong safety culture focused on prevention and accountability
• Ensure compliance with California labor laws, including proper documentation and training

Quality & Customer Satisfaction

• Ensure products meet defined quality standards and customer expectations
• Drive root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions
• Strengthen quality systems and process controls

People Leadership

• Hire, develop, and retain a high-performing workforce
• Provide coaching, feedback, and performance management
• Foster an inclusive, respectful, and accountable work environment

Financial Performance

• Own plant-level financial performance, including cost control and profitability
• Monitor KPIs and drive improvements using data-driven decision-making
• Identify and execute cost-saving opportunities

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Operations, or related field required
• 7–10+ years of leadership experience in a manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated success managing plant operations with P&L responsibility
• Experience in high-volume or assembly-based manufacturing environments
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement
• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing metrics
• Working knowledge of California employment and safety regulations

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in building products, component manufacturing, or similar industries
• OSHA 30, Lean Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt), or APICS certifications

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position operates in both office and manufacturing environments and requires regular presence on the production floor. The role involves exposure to moving equipment, noise, and varying temperatures. Use of required personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory.

Frequent standing, walking, and use of hands is required. Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds may be necessary.

Compensation & Schedule

The pay range, benefits, and work schedule for this position are listed on the company careers page in accordance with California law.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Additional Information

• Location: Onsite – Southern California
• Travel: As business needs require
• Confidential Search: Additional company details will be shared with qualified candidates

You should be proficient in:

• Customer Service
• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing)
• Leadership / People Management
• Lean Manufacturing Principles
• Experience in a Manufacturing Environment

Machines & technologies you'll use:

• ERP Software