What are the responsibilities and job description for the Plant Manager position at FTC Solar Inc?
About FTC Solar:
FTC Solar is a leading provider of advanced solar tracker systems, software, and engineering services, delivering fast and efficient solutions to global solar developers. At our steel manufacturing plant in Sealy, Texas, we fabricate structural components essential to our innovative solar tracking systems. We are seeking a driven, experienced Plant Manager to lead and optimize our operations.
Position Summary:
As the Plant Manager for our Sealy facility, you will oversee all aspects of plant operations including production, quality, safety, maintenance, and team management. You will lead a team of approximately 30 employees in a fast-paced steel manufacturing environment, ensuring products are delivered safely, on time, and within quality and cost targets. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in engineering or manufacturing management, a hands-on leadership style, and a passion for continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead daily operations of the Sealy steel manufacturing facility, ensuring alignment with company goals.
- Supervise and develop a team of approximately 30 employees including production leads, operators, and support staff; with expected growth to 100 in the next 18 months.
- Manage production schedules, resource planning, and workflow optimization to meet output and quality targets.
- Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and OSHA regulations. Promote a strong safety culture throughout the plant.
- Oversee preventive maintenance programs and coordinate repairs to minimize downtime.
- Implement and monitor KPIs for productivity, efficiency, quality, and cost control.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with supply chain, engineering, and quality teams to drive operational excellence.
- Lead and support lean manufacturing initiatives and continuous improvement projects.
- Maintain accurate reporting on plant performance, inventory, and operational challenges.
- Manage budget and cost controls in line with company expectations.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Management, or a related field (required).
- Minimum 5 years of experience in manufacturing operations, preferably in steel or metal fabrication.
- Proven leadership experience managing teams of 20 employees in a plant environment.
- Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and production metrics.
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems, manufacturing software, and data-driven decision making.
- Excellent communication, team-building, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on operational role.
- Working knowledge of safety and environmental compliance in industrial settings.
Why FTC Solar?
- Be part of the clean energy transition with a company at the forefront of solar innovation.
- Work in a dynamic environment with the autonomy to drive operational improvements.
- Competitive compensation and benefits.
- Career growth opportunities within a growing organization.