Plant Operations Manager

Job Title: Plant Operations Manager

Location: Oshkosh, WI

Type: Direct Hire

Schedule: Monday - Thursday, 5am - 3:30pm

Pay Range: $125k - $150k bonus

Benefits: Yes. Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, 401(k), Paid holidays

Summary

Connect Search is hiring a Plant Operations Manager in Oshkosh.

Responsbilities

• Lead operational aspects of facility startup, commissioning, and production ramp-up
• Monitor project progress and proactively address risks, delays, and resource constraints
• Ensure all startup deliverables are completed safely, on time, and within budget
• Manage day-to-day manufacturing operations to achieve production, quality, safety, and cost objectives
• Manage all fabrication, welding, assembly, painting, sandblasting, and finishing operations
• Monitor work-in-process and finished goods to ensure timely completion
• Establish standard operating procedures, work instructions, and operational controls
• Implement performance metrics and reporting systems to monitor operational effectiveness
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, efficiency, quality, and waste reduction
• Ensure production schedules are met while maintaining customer service expectations
• Recruit, hire, train, and develop production supervisors, leads, and hourly employees
• Establish a culture of accountability, teamwork, engagement, and continuous improvement
• Provide coaching, performance management, and employee development opportunities
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with all company, OSHA, environmental, and regulatory requirements
• Implement safety programs, training, and risk mitigation strategies
• Support equipment installation, validation, and operational readiness activities; ensure plant equipment, tools, and facilities are properly maintained; coordinate preventive maintenance programs
• Oversee inspection processes, quality documentation, and product tagging requirements
• Investigate quality concerns and implement corrective actions
• Oversee shipping, receiving, material handling, and inventory control activities
• Ensure accurate inventory counts and proper material storage
• Coordinate outbound shipments to meet customer delivery schedules
• Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with purchasing to prevent shortages
• Monitor labor, material, and operating costs
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality and performance standards
• Support capital expenditure planning and justification for equipment and facility investments

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related field highly desired; equivalent experience in lieu of degree may be considered
• 5 years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience
• Strong project management experience, including planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and execution
• Experience managing hourly manufacturing employees
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, and operational excellence principles