Sr. Director of Plant Operations - Atlanta Georgia

Senior Director Of Plant Operations

Neptune Technology Group, a leader in smart water metering and advanced utility infrastructure solutions, is seeking an accomplished Senior Director of Plant Operations with extensive experience leading brownfield/greenfield manufacturing start-ups from concept through full-scale production.

This role will be instrumental in launching Neptune's next-generation manufacturing facility by overseeing site selection, facility design, construction, operational readiness, and the production ramp-up. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in electro-mechanical manufacturing—preferably within metering, industrial instrumentation, or IoT-enabled devices—as well as expertise in automation and digital transformation.

This position offers the opportunity to build and lead a world-class, digitally enabled manufacturing facility from the ground up, directly influencing Neptune's operational capabilities, culture, and long-term performance. Neptune is committed to advancing smart water technology and sustainable manufacturing, helping utilities measure, manage, and conserve water through innovation, intelligence, and reliability.

Facility Start-Up Leadership

• Lead all aspects of facility development, from site evaluation through design, construction, equipment commissioning, and production launch.
• Partner with executive leadership to define project strategy, scope, budget, and schedule, ensuring alignment with Neptune's long-term growth objectives.
• Collaborate with architects, contractors, equipment vendors, and local authorities to ensure successful facility delivery.
• Drive the integration of automation, robotics, and smart manufacturing technologies into facility design and operations.

Operational Excellence

• Build and lead a high-performance manufacturing organization, including production, manufacturing engineering, quality, maintenance, logistics, and inventory management functions.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement, efficiency, and quality.
• Develop operational KPIs and reporting systems to ensure accountability and transparency.
• Manage operational budgets, capital projects, and resource planning to meet performance and cost objectives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with HR, Engineering, Product Development, Supply Chain, IT, and Finance to ensure manufacturing readiness, scalability, and cost optimization.
• Work closely with Human Resources to recruit, train, and retain top operations and production talent.
• Collaborate with HSE to maintain a safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible operation.

Production Ramp-Up & Digital Transformation

• Lead the transition from pilot production to full manufacturing operations, ensuring process validation and production efficiency.
• Champion automation, Industry 4.0, and digital transformation initiatives to modernize Neptune's manufacturing systems.
• Implement data-driven manufacturing tools, MES systems, and real-time performance dashboards.
• Foster a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.

Neptune Values

The ideal candidate will embody Neptune's four core values in everything they do:

Own It:
Demonstrate full accountability for site performance, project outcomes, and team results. Deliver on commitments and always do what's right for the business and its people.

Be Humble:
Roll up your sleeves alongside the team. Build a culture of mutual respect across all functions and levels, putting the success of the organization above personal recognition.

Be a Passionate Solver:
Approach every challenge—from facility start-up complexity to production ramp-up obstacles—with adaptability, tenacity, and a continuous learning mindset. Take pride in finding solutions that drive measurable impact.

Win Together:
Champion cross-functional collaboration across HR, Engineering, Supply Chain, Finance, and HSE. Leverage diverse perspectives to build a stronger, more capable operation and achieve shared goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Operations Management, or related discipline (MBA preferred).
• 15+ years of progressive…