Plant Manager

Job Title: Plant Manager – Manufacturing

Location: Summerville, SC

Position Type: Full-Time

Reports To: General Manager

Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Plant Manager to lead our manufacturing facility in Summerville, SC. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in optimizing plant operations and overseeing both semi-automated and fully automated manufacturing equipment. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring strategic vision, operational expertise, and a strong focus on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Please note: *Only local candidates currently living within a 50 mile radius of Summerville, SC will be considered for this role*

Key Responsibilities:

1. Plant Leadership and Operations Management

• Lead and manage all plant operations, ensuring production goals, quality standards, and safety targets are consistently met.
• Develop and execute operational strategies to optimize efficiency, throughput, and cost management.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement using lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, or other operational excellence methodologies.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) across production, maintenance, safety, and quality.

2. Maintenance Department Oversight

• Directly manage a large, diverse maintenance department including maintenance technicians with varying specialties (electrical, mechanical, PLC, hydraulic/pneumatic, etc.).
• Oversee preventive and predictive maintenance programs to minimize equipment downtime and maximize overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Implement maintenance best practices for both semi-automated and fully automated machinery, ensuring safety and operational reliability.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to support equipment upgrades, modifications, and installation of new machinery.

3. Production and Equipment Management

• Ensure seamless operation of semi-automated and fully automated equipment, including robotics, conveyor systems, and other manufacturing technology.
• Identify bottlenecks, implement process improvements, and ensure consistent product quality.
• Maintain strict adherence to operational, safety, and quality standards.

4. Team Development and Leadership

• Mentor, and develop plant personnel to build a high-performing workforce.
• Foster strong collaboration between maintenance, production, quality, and engineering teams.
• Conduct performance reviews, set goals, and drive accountability throughout the plant.

5. Compliance and Safety

• Maintain compliance with OSHA, environmental, and company safety regulations.
• Lead safety initiatives and ensure a proactive safety culture throughout the facility.
• Investigate incidents, implement corrective actions, and track safety metrics.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Management, or related field (preferred).
• Minimum 8–10 years of experience in manufacturing operations, including at least 5 years in a plant management or senior operations leadership role.
• Proven experience managing large maintenance teams and complex automated manufacturing equipment.
• Strong knowledge of maintenance practices for semi-automated and fully automated systems, including robotics, PLCs, hydraulics, and pneumatics.
• Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement initiatives, and production metrics management.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Must be local to the Charleston, SC metro area.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
• Performance-based bonuses
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Opportunities for professional development