Plant manager

Precision Manufacturing — Engineered Industrial Components

Location:

Topeka, KS area (Onsite) – Relocation assistance is available, and ownership is open to creative arrangements, including support for candidates commuting from a larger nearby metro during a transition period.

Compensation: $150-190k base + bonus (open to higher for the right candidate)

Reports to:

CEO

Direct Reports:
All floor functions report to the PM

Team:
Oversees CNC machining, assembly, quality, and shipping/receiving; approximately 100 production employees; non-union shop

• 7–10+ years of progressive, hands‑on manufacturing leadership experience, with direct accountability for plant performance in roles such as Plant Manager, Operations Manager, or comparable production leadership positions.
• Broad operational knowledge of CNC machining, assembly, quality control, and shipping and receiving, including both automated production processes and manual assembly operations.
• Demonstrated ability to introduce structure, establish KPI‑driven performance management, and implement standardized procedures in manufacturing environments with informal or inconsistent processes.
• Strong shop‑floor leadership presence, with the ability to earn trust, engage employees, and motivate an experienced, long‑tenured workforce through direct involvement and visible leadership.
• Ability to work closely with executive leadership, communicate production results effectively, and translate operational performance into clear, consistent reporting.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, or a related discipline, or equivalent practical manufacturing leadership experience.
• Willingness and ability to live and work in a small, close‑knit manufacturing community.

• Experience working in a private equity‑backed manufacturing company or an organization that has recently undergone an acquisition.
• Familiarity with M&A integration, multi‑site manufacturing operations, or an interest in taking on broader responsibilities in these areas.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification, or comparable experience with continuous improvement methodologies such as 5S and Kaizen.
• Background in precision machining, engineering‑driven manufacturing, or the production of specialized industrial components.
• Experience designing, restructuring, or developing a plant‑level organizational structure to support improved performance and future growth.

Our client is a private equity‑backed manufacturer specializing in precision‑engineered components used in a variety of demanding industrial applications. With a long‑standing operating history, an established customer base, and an experienced workforce, the company is entering an exciting period of investment and expansion.

The organization is seeking a hands‑on manufacturing leader who can introduce stronger operating discipline, establish meaningful performance metrics, and modernize plant processes while building on the company's existing strengths.

Supported by an experienced ownership group with a long‑term investment outlook, the business is positioned for continued growth through operational improvements and future acquisitions. This is an opportunity to play a foundational role in that journey, with the potential for expanded responsibilities as the organization grows.

• Oversee Plant Performance: Direct daily manufacturing activities across CNC machining, assembly, quality, and shipping and receiving, with accountability for productivity, throughput, operating costs, and overall plant performance.
• Establish KPI‑Driven Management: Develop and implement appropriate performance metrics, reporting standards, and review routines to improve…