Plant Manager

Judge Direct Placement is seeking a Plant Manager in Springfield, IL area! The Plant Manager will provide leadership across all visions of the plant while fostering a high-performance engaged work force.

Responsibilities:

• Provide overall leadership and direction for plant operations, including safety, quality, production, maintenance, and supply chain functions
• Ensure consistent and reliable execution of production schedules across multiple lines and shifts
• Drive continuous improvement in Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), productivity, and cost efficiency
• Uphold high standards for product quality, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence
• Lead capital projects and oversee equipment performance and facility reliability initiatives
• Implement Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement programs to reduce waste and enhance efficiency
• Champion process optimization efforts and drive initiatives to reduce scrap and improve yield
• Foster a safety-first culture and ensure full compliance with all regulatory and environmental requirements
• Lead programs that prioritize the safety and well-being of employees, customers, and the community
• Ensure strict adherence to quality standards and customer specifications
• Identify operational risks proactively and implement mitigation strategies
• Manage plant performance against financial and operational targets, ensuring accountability at all levels
• Develop and execute plans to optimize cost structure and improve overall operational performance
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to drive results
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning processes
• Build, lead, and develop high-performing teams of hourly and salaried employees
• Promote a culture of engagement, accountability, and continuous learning
• Coach and mentor supervisors and frontline leaders to strengthen leadership capabilities
• Drive employee retention, development, and succession planning initiatives
• Maintain strong employee relations and a positive, inclusive work environment
• Align plant operations with corporate strategy and cross-functional objectives
• Communicate effectively across all levels, from frontline employees to executive leadership
• Serve as the primary representative of the plant within the broader organization
• Encourage collaboration and teamwork across all functional areas

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Operations or Business
• Proven leadership experience in a manufacturing setting
• Proven success managing high-volume, multi-line production
• Experience implementing lean manufacturing, CI systems, and problem-solving methods
• Proven ability to lead, develop and retain both hourly & salary employees
• Hands on leadership, with strong floor presence