Production & Material, Operations Manager

Production & Material, Operations Manager

The Production & Material Manager is responsible for leading end-to-end production and warehouse operations to ensure the efficient, high-quality build and delivery of new and existing products. This role drives operational excellence across manufacturing and logistics functions, aligning production execution with business objectives, cost targets, and customer expectations. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in manufacturing best practices, strong leadership capability, and the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders including Engineering and senior leadership.

This leader thrives in a fast-paced, evolving environment, balancing strategic planning with hands-on execution while fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and high performance. This role represents Plug Power with the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.

Core Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and optimize daily production and warehouse operations to meet or exceed safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets.
• Oversee production scheduling, throughput, and execution to ensure alignment with business priorities.
• Direct warehouse operations including receiving, inventory management, material handling, and shipping to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify trends, gaps, and improvement opportunities.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, 5S, process optimization) to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and maximize equipment utilization.
• Implement corrective and preventive actions to address performance, quality, or operational issues.
• Ensure inventory accuracy through cycle counts, physical inventories, and reconciliation processes.
• Partner with Planning to control material usage, maintain inventory integrity, and ensure production schedule adherence.
• Improve warehouse layout, material flow, and space utilization to support operational scalability.
• Lead, coach, and develop team members and frontline leaders to build a high-performing, engaged workforce.
• Establish clear goals and performance expectations; drive accountability through regular feedback and performance management.
• Support talent development through training, cross-training, and succession planning initiatives.
• Build strong cross-functional relationships to resolve issues and drive alignment on operational goals. Partner closely with Manufacturing Engineering to develop, refine, and implement assembly procedures and training programs. Collaborate with Quality, Engineering, and other functions to support new product introductions and design changes.
• Champion a culture of quality by addressing root causes of defects and improving overall product performance.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, OSHA regulations, environmental requirements, and company policies.
• Promote safe work practices and hold teams accountable for maintaining a safe work environment.
• Drive the development and adherence to control plans and standardized work processes.
• Leverage ERP and data systems to support operational decision-making and reporting.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree and 7+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, including leadership of production and warehouse/logistics functions (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
• Proven success leading multi-functional teams in a manufacturing environment
• Experience in technology or advanced manufacturing environments preferred
• Strong operational leadership with a track record of driving performance and continuous improvement
• Data-driven decision-making with experience using KPIs and operational metrics
• Proficiency with ERP systems and business software (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels
• Demonstrated experience in Lean manufacturing, 5S, and process improvement methodologies preferred
• Strong project management and problem-solving capabilities
• High attention to detail with strong follow-through and execution discipline
• Results-orien…