Plant Manager

Cargo Equipment Corporation is a leader in high quality ratchet straps, winch straps, and cargo control products. Our custom trailer tie-down straps are made to order in the USA with the highest quality hardware, the strongest webbing and the best ratchets. With over 50 years of experience our manufacturing staff builds custom tie-down assemblies to meet our customer’s exact needs.  

We are seeking a result's driven Plant Manager to lead operations at our manufacturing facility, located in Huntly, IL. The Plant Manager oversees all aspects of plant operations, including safety, production, maintenance, quality control, logistics, and employee engagement. The Plant Manager will be responsible for ensuring efficient production processes, maintaining high standards of quality, achieving financial objectives, and fostering a safe and productive work environment. This role requires a strong emphasis on lean manufacturing principles to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day plant operations, ensuring smooth and efficient production processes.
• Develop and implement production schedules, policies, and procedures to meet business goals and customer demands.
• Ensure the plant meets or exceeds safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets.
• Monitor financial performance, analyze variances, and implement corrective actions as necessary.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives while maintaining product quality and production efficiency.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
• Oversees plant personnel activities, including hiring, promotion, demotion, transfers and disciplinary actions.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws and company policies.
• Implement and maintain robust quality control systems to ensure products meet or exceed customer specifications and industry standards.
• Address and resolve quality issues promptly, working with relevant departments to implement corrective actions.
• Promote a culture of safety and ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, utilizing lean manufacturing principles and other methodologies to enhance efficiency and productivity.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement innovative solutions.
• Works with Human Resources to assure a positive, constructive working environment built on honesty, fairness, integrity, and respect.
• Collaborate with senior management to develop and execute strategic plans for the facility.
• Personally maintain plant floor focus, “go and see”, engage with all shifts.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years of management experience in a manufacturing environment
• Strong knowledge of aluminum manufacturing processes and industry standards.
• Proven track record of achieving operational and financial goals.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and environmental standards.

Working Conditions:

• This position requires working in a manufacturing environment, with exposure to noise, heat, and other industrial conditions.
• The Plant Manager must be available to respond to emergencies and operational issues outside regular working hours.