Plant Operations Manager

Plant Operations ManagerLocation: Grand Rapids, MichiganIndustry: Marine ManufacturingRelocation Package OfferedPosition SummaryThe Plant Operations Manager provides full operational leadership for a marine manufacturing facility operating in a high-mix, job shop environment. This role is responsible for safety, quality, delivery, cost control, and workforce engagement while driving continuous improvement across the operation.The ideal candidate has a strong marine industry background and leads through servant leadership principles while maintaining operational discipline and financial accountability.Key ResponsibilitiesOperational LeadershipLead daily plant operations including production, maintenance, materials, quality, and shippingManage workflow in a high-mix, job shop layout while maintaining schedule adherenceDrive on-time delivery and throughput performanceEstablish clear production rhythm and accountability at all levelsContinuous ImprovementStrengthen process stability and standardizationImprove flow, reduce bottlenecks, and increase labor productivityLead structured problem-solving to eliminate recurring production issuesImplement practical performance metrics that drive measurable resultsFinancial PerformanceOwn plant-level operating performance and cost controlsManage labor efficiency, overhead, scrap, and material usageSupport revenue growth through operational capability and executionPartner with leadership on forecasting, budgeting, and capital investmentsWorkforce & CultureLead through servant leadership, setting clear expectations and supporting team successDevelop supervisors and frontline leadersBuild a culture of accountability, ownership, and safetyMaintain strong safety discipline throughout the facilityQuality & Customer AlignmentMaintain high marine industry quality standardsReduce rework and warranty exposureAlign operations closely with engineering and customer requirementsQualificationsBachelor's degree in manufacturing, Engineering, Industrial Leadership, or related field7–15+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership experienceMarine industry manufacturing experience preferredExperience operating within high-mix, job shop production environmentsWorking knowledge of machining and foundry operationsStrong financial and operational acumenLeadership ProfileServant leader who develops peopleDecisive and performance-drivenPractical, hands-on operatorStrong communicator across all organizational levelsComfortable balancing structure with flexibility in a custom production setting