Plant Manager - Recycle

Overview

Return Polymers operates six manufacturing and recycling sites across five states, employing approximately 400 team members nationwide. This Plant Manager role, reporting to the Vice President/General Manager Recycling, will lead the company’s Wilmington Recycling Plant (75+ team members) and hold full site responsibility for safety, quality, service, cost, and performance while supporting Return Polymers’ broader multi-site operational strategy.

Location: Cincinnati–Dayton–Columbus Metropolitan Area (On-site)

Note
: A comprehensive relocation program is available for candidates outside the Cincinnati–Dayton–Columbus, Ohio area.

• Ensure compliance with company standards for safety, environmental, quality, production efficiency, logistics, and inventory to maintain a safe workplace and deliver high-quality products.
• Maintain a clear understanding of plant capacity versus actual production output by collecting, analyzing, and tracking performance data across production areas.
• Lead and engage team members by fostering inclusion, accountability, transparency, and a culture of continuous improvement.
• Drive process and system improvements across operations, production, and maintenance to reduce costs and minimize operational disruptions.
• Develop and deploy KPIs and visual management systems on the shop floor to drive performance and accountability.
• Partner closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, and Supply Chain to ensure all standards, practices, and metrics meet customer and business requirements.
• Develop and execute strategies to improve operational efficiency, optimize inventory, and maximize service performance.
• Proactively identify and communicate risks related to production, staffing, and employee relations, and implement effective solutions.
• Lead performance management, coaching, and development efforts to build a high-performing leadership and operations team.
• Oversee equipment installations, commissioning, and startup activities.
• Manage fixed asset reporting, capital planning, and departmental budget and expense accountability.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives, including 6S, TPM, and Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Ensure consistent adherence to all company policies, procedures, and Return Polymers’ Core Values.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• 10+ years of professional experience, including 5+ years in manufacturing leadership; recycling industry experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success in a similar leadership role, with experience in recycled plastics processing preferred.
• Knowledge of plastic extrusion processes and industry specifications for inbound scrap streams.
• Familiarity with material sizing and processing equipment, including grinders, shredders, and pulverizers.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and performance analysis.
• Proven ability to plan, manage, and execute complex projects.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and lead across all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver results through others by clearly delegating, setting expectations, and driving accountability.
• Self-directed, adaptable, and effective in a fast-paced, 24/7 manufacturing environment.

• Valid Driver’s License
• Lean Manufacturing Training (preferred)
• OSHA 30-Hour Certification (preferred)

• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Experience with SAP and/or JD Edwards preferred

Equal Opportunity

Employer:

The AZEK Company has been acquired by James Hardie. James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with brands including Hardie®, Timber Tech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and Stru Xure®. With 8,000+ employees worldwide, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.

For more information, visit  James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law. For more information about your rights, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.