Assistant Block Plant Manager; Punta Gorda, FL

Position: Assistant Block Plant Manager (Punta Gorda, FL, US, 33982)
Job

Preferred Materials - Concrete Division, part of CRH South Division, is a leading supplier of ready mix concrete, concrete block, rebar and building materials in the state of Florida, providing the highest product quality and service in the construction industry. With headquarters in Tampa, Florida, and operations in five key Florida markets, Preferred Materials provides municipalities, developers, architects, engineers, contractors, builders and suppliers a wide variety of construction materials and products.

Our employees make Preferred Materials a great place to work. We promote a strong safety culture, where employees take responsibility for their own safety.

Build your career. Build a team. Build something that lasts.

We're looking for a hands‑on, safety‑driven leader to help run daily operations at our block manufacturing plant. If you thrive in a fast‑paced production environment, enjoy solving problems, and take pride in producing a high‑quality product, this role gives you the opportunity to lead people, improve processes, and make a real impact on plant performance.

What You'll Do (Your Impact)

As the Assistant Plant Manager, you'll partner closely with the Plant Manager to ensure the site runs safely, efficiently, and at the highest quality standards. You'll help lead a team, maintain equipment, manage production schedules, and keep operations running smoothly.

Key Responsibilities

* Champion a strong safety culture by enforcing OSHA standards and company policies.

* Lead, coach, and support block plant employees to create a positive, productive work environment.

* Schedule block production based on sales demand and inventory needs.

* Maintain accurate inventories of raw materials and resale materials.

* Ensure equipment is properly maintained and downtime is minimized.

* Monitor and uphold quality standards for all block products.

* Assist with block sales, customer service, and delivery coordination when needed.

* Perform routine mechanical/electrical repairs and preventative maintenance.

* Troubleshoot production issues and support continuous improvement.

* Conduct physical and bulk inventories.

* Travel to other company facilities as needed to support operations.

* Represent the company professionally with peers, contractors, and the public.

* Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and site requirements.

Leadership Responsibilities

In your support role to the Plant Manager, you will also:

* Hire, train, and supervise plant employees.

* Prepare daily production and downtime reports; maintain documentation systems.

* Order and maintain inventory of parts, supplies, and raw materials.

* Perform daily moisture analysis and adjust mix designs accordingly.

* Batch and adjust mixes to meet production needs.

* Cross‑train employees and support skill development.

* Perform plant startup and shutdown procedures.

* Assist with coaching, corrective actions, terminations, and annual evaluations.

What You Bring

We're looking for someone who is technically skilled, safety‑focused, and ready to lead.

Education & Experience

* Strong understanding of electrical blueprints and control circuits (Allen Bradley, IDEC, Texas Instruments).

* Experience with hydraulic and pneumatic systems.

* Metal fabrication skills (welding and cutting).

* Knowledge of mix design, ASTM specifications, and block production quality standards.

* Extensive experience with Besser and Columbia block machinery.

* Strong electrical troubleshooting and maintenance skills.

* Prior leadership or supervisory experience in a production environment.

Work Requirements

* Ability to pass pre‑employment physical, drug screen, background check, and MVR review.

* Willingness to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

* Valid U.S. driver's license and authorization to work in the U.S.

* Strong commitment to safety and reliable attendance.

Skills for Success

* Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions.

* Strong communication skills - written and verbal.

* Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office, reporting systems).

* Ability to use hand and power tools, weld, chip, and operate cutting torches.

* Ability to use…