Plant Manager

Job Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Plant Manager to lead our hydraulic cylinder manufacturing facility. This individual will be accountable for driving performance across key operational metrics, including expense management, schedule attainment, productivity, and on-time delivery. The Plant Manager will support continuous improvement while fostering an inclusive and engaged work environment grounded in accountability, empathy, and employee advocacy. This role demands a leader who holds the line on expectations and does not compromise on standards related to quality, safety, delivery, or performance. The ideal candidate will set clear goals, enforce them consistently, and ensure the team remains focused on achieving key results.

Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Development

· Provide consistent, supportive leadership to foster trust and respect across all plant functions.

· Develop and mentor high-performing teams, reinforcing the company’s core values.

· Model and enforce accountability, transparency, and open communication, with a strong focus on achieving operational goals.

· Ensure all team members are held accountable for meeting key performance indicators, with goal achievement viewed as critical to success.

· Lead by example, driving a culture of continuous improvement and engagement.

Operational Excellence & Efficiency

· Lead cost-reduction initiatives, focusing on scrap, rework, and extra work to improve gross margins.

· Develop systems and processes that track, optimize, and improve productivity, metrics, and asset utilization.

· Monitor and control expenditures, labor hours, and overall plant efficiency.

· Conduct regular management audits and cell assessments to identify areas for improvement.

· Drive the implementation of lean manufacturing principles across the plant.

Strategic Planning & Coordination

· Actively manage scheduling and departmental planning meetings to stay informed on upcoming work and align priorities.

· Direct production control, planning, and purchasing functions to ensure seamless product flow through the plant and adherence to schedule requirements.

· Develop and implement policies to govern plant operations, ensuring consistency and compliance.

· Coordinate cross-functional efforts to align production with business goals and customer needs.

· Analyze operational data to make informed decisions and adjust strategies accordingly.

Safety, Compliance, and Environmental Responsibility

· Maintain a safe and compliant workplace by adhering to OSHA standards and company safety protocols.

· Foster a culture of safety, holding employees accountable for safe practices and a clean working environment.

· Ensure compliance with ISO 9001:2015 standards and other relevant quality certifications.

Financial Management & Budgeting

· Monitor plant expenses and take corrective actions as necessary to meet goals.

· Support capital expenditure planning and project execution.

· Ensure accurate tracking of expenses and labor hours to optimize costs and improve profitability.

· Utilize financial data to identify cost-saving opportunities and maximize profitability.

Customer Focus & Continuous Improvement

· Prioritize customer satisfaction by ensuring high-quality products are delivered on time and within budget.

· Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices across the plant.

· Ensure that operations consistently adhere to the company’s Quality Management System to produce quality products that meet customer requirements.

· Ensure the plant remains adaptable to evolving customer needs, market trends, and industry changes.

· Support product innovation and process optimization to stay competitive in the market.

Basic Qualifications:

· Associates degree.

· 5 years of progressive manufacturing supervisory experience.

· Experience working in ERP systems.

· Knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 standards.

· Proficient in Microsoft office products and ERP platforms.

Preferred Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree .

· Experience with large OEM-style quality programs and requirements.

· Experience in the fluid power industry.

· 5 years of experience in a plant management role.

Relocation:

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility. This is an on-site position located in Kansas.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Relocation assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Great Bend, KS 67530 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Great Bend, KS 67530: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $95,000