Plant Manager

We are seeking a hands-on and results-driven Plant Manager to oversee the launch, development, and daily operations of a manufacturing facility specializing in automotive interior components. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing operations, production management, and process improvement, with the ability to establish efficient production systems, build a high-performing team, and ensure operational readiness. This role requires a practical leader who can work closely with employees, customers, and senior management while driving quality, safety, and production efficiency.

• Oversee all plant operations, including production, quality, safety, maintenance, and logistics.
• Lead the transition and development of manufacturing operations to achieve full plant readiness.
• Plan, coordinate, and monitor manufacturing processes to meet production targets and customer delivery requirements.
• Oversee production of automotive interior components, including plastic injection-molded parts and soft trim products.
• Monitor production capacity, equipment performance, and workflow to ensure operational efficiency.
• Establish production schedules, staffing requirements, and operational procedures.
• Support the successful launch, implementation, and expansion of new manufacturing processes.

• Lead, coach, and develop production supervisors, department leads, and manufacturing employees.
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, training, scheduling, and performance management.
• Establish clear expectations and promote accountability across production teams.
• Foster a positive, respectful, and collaborative workplace culture.
• Ensure appropriate staffing levels across multiple shifts.
• Work with HR to address employee relations, retention, and personnel matters.

• Ensure compliance with automotive quality standards and applicable manufacturing regulations.
• Promote a strong culture of workplace safety and operational discipline.
• Collaborate with quality and maintenance teams to reduce downtime, defects, and material waste.
• Monitor production performance and implement process improvements.
• Establish and maintain procedures that support consistent product quality and manufacturing efficiency.
• Support process qualification, validation, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Monitor equipment performance and ensure proper maintenance of manufacturing machinery.
• Approve maintenance activities and recommend equipment purchases as needed.
• Coordinate production resources, materials, and logistics to support uninterrupted operations.
• Analyze production reports and operational data to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Ensure manufacturing processes are properly implemented and maintained.

• Communicate with customers regarding production schedules, product quality, and delivery expectations.
• Work with senior leadership and project teams to develop long-term manufacturing strategies.
• Participate in customer discussions and support ongoing business relationships, including interactions with automotive OEMs.
• Identify opportunities to expand manufacturing capabilities and support future business growth.

• 3+ years of operational management experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in automotive manufacturing, particularly Class A soft trim automotive interior production.
• Knowledge of plastic injection molding and automotive component manufacturing.
• Experience with production launches, manufacturing start-ups, or facility expansions.
• Understanding of highly automated production environments and process validation.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to work hands-on in a relatively small manufacturing operation.
• Experience managing production schedules, staffing, quality, maintenance, and operational performance.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with customers, employees, and senior management.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining production efficiency, quality, and safety.

• IATF 16949 Quality Management System certification or training.
• ISO 9001 Quality Management System certification or training.
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification.
• OSHA Safety Training or…