Plant Manager

Company Overview

We are a leading railcar repair and maintenance facility committed to excellence, safety, and customer service in the rail industry. Our team thrives on precision, problem-solving, and delivering high-quality service to ensure the reliability and safety of our customers' railcar fleet. We are seeking an experienced Plant Manager with a strong leadership presence and ability to build and develop high performing teams.

Job Summary

The Railcar Repair Plant Manager will oversee all operations of our railcar repair facility, ensuring efficient production, adherence to safety standards, and a culture of continuous improvement. This role requires a strategic thinker with exceptional technical expertise, a methodical approach to problem-solving, and the ability to lead a diverse team in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate thrives on designing systems, solving complex problems, and driving innovation through structured, analytical approaches.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Manage daily operations, including repair schedules, quality control, and resource allocation, to meet production goals and customer expectations.
• Team Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of technicians, supervisors, and support staff, fostering a culture of accountability, precision, and collaboration.
• Safety and Compliance: Ensure compliance with OSHA, FRA, and AAR regulations, maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.
• Process Optimization: Analyze workflows and implement data-driven improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve repair quality.
• Budget and Resource Management: Oversee budgeting, inventory, and procurement to optimize operational costs while maintaining high standards.
• Customer and Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with clients, vendors, and regulatory bodies to ensure service excellence and contractual compliance.
• Reporting and Analytics: Utilize KPIs and performance metrics to monitor plant performance and report progress to senior leadership.

Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years in railcar repair, manufacturing, or heavy industrial operations, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Management, or a related field. Advanced certifications (e.g., Six Sigma, PMP) are a plus.
• Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of railcar repair processes, AAR billing codes, mechanical systems, and industry standards (AAR, FRA).
• Leadership Style: Proven ability to lead with clarity, structure, and a focus on results, while fostering a collaborative and innovative team culture.
• Personality traits: Detail-oriented, with a passion for mastering technical challenges and ensuring precision in execution. Strong ability to troubleshoot issues and implement practical solutions.

Skills:

• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to manage diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in RailcarRX railcar billing, data analysis tools, and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a high-pressure environment.

Preferred Traits

• High attention to detail and a methodical approach to managing complex operations.
• Comfortable working independently to develop systems and solutions, while also collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• A proactive mindset, with a focus on anticipating challenges and driving continuous improvement.

Why Join Us?

• Impactful Work: Lead a critical operation that keeps the rail industry moving.
• Growth Opportunities: Join a company that invests in leadership development and career advancement.
• Collaborative Culture: Work with a team that values precision, innovation, and excellence.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $110,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Evening shift
• Monday to Friday
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Experience:

• railcar repair: 5 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Carterville, IL 62918 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Carterville, IL 62918: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $110,000 - $120,000