Plant Manager

Networks Connect; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Networks Connect, a global automation technology leader, seeks a Plant Manager to lead operations at a 550,000+ square foot manufacturing facility with 15 direct reports and ~500 total employees. You will drive production efficiency, continuous improvement, and lean initiatives, translating business objectives into actionable strategies for a high-volume environment.

The role requires hands-on leadership on the plant floor, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and a focus on safety,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management or related field.
• 15–20 years of experience in manufacturing with leadership roles.
• Experience in operations management, manufacturing or mechanical engineering.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily plant operations to ensure efficient production, resource utilization, and on-time delivery.
• Translate business objectives into actionable operational strategies and procedures.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams including production, quality, purchasing, and shipping.
• Ensure optimal staffing, scheduling, and performance across all production teams.
• Identify and implement automation, process improvements, and technology upgrades.
• Oversee ERP system improvements and data accuracy initiatives.

Skills

Plant leadership

Lean manufacturing

ERP experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Operations Management

Tools

Syteline ERP

Provia ERP

Excel

Job description

Our client, a global leader in automation technology, seeking an experienced Plant Manager to lead operations at a 550,000+ square foot manufacturing facility, overseeing 15 direct reports and approximately 500 total employees. This role is responsible for driving production efficiency and continuous improvement in a high-volume environment.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Production Management

• Lead daily plant operations to ensure efficient production, resource utilization, and on-time delivery
• Translate business objectives into actionable operational strategies and procedures
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams including production, quality, purchasing, and shipping
• Ensure optimal staffing, scheduling, and performance across all production teams

Strategic Planning & Process Optimization

• Identify and implement automation, process improvements, and technology upgrades
• Partner with supply chain and sales teams to forecast demand and align production
• Oversee ERP system improvements and data accuracy initiatives
• Lead long-term planning for facility growth, new product introductions, and operational scalability
• Support budgeting and monitor plant-level financial performance
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and inventory optimization
• Partner with accounting and engineering teams to improve profitability and cost accuracy
• Deliver reporting and insights to senior leadership on operational and financial performance

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop production managers, supervisors, and plant personnel
• Build high-performing teams through training programs and performance management
• Support hiring and succession planning efforts
• Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous learning

Safety & Workplace Excellence

• Maintain a safe, compliant, and organized work environment
• Lead 5S and safety initiatives across the facility
• Ensure proper equipment operation and adherence to safety standards

Qualifications

Required Experience & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 15–20 years of experience in manufacturing, including leadership roles in:
• Operations Management
• Manufacturing or Mechanical Engineering

Core Skills

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, production planning, and supply chain operations
• Proven leadership in continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and process optimization
• Experience with ERP systems and business software (e.g., Syteline, Provia, Excel)
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Combination of office (80%) and production floor (20%)
• Hands‑on leadership role requiring visibility across operations
• Ability to engage directly in production processes when needed