Plant Manager

Princeton Search Partners; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Princeton Search Partners is partnering with a leading CPG manufacturer in Columbia, SC to hire a Plant Manager. The successful candidate will lead all manufacturing operations, strengthen plant performance, and build an engaged, accountable team.

This role requires presence on the plant floor, managing daily operations, and delivering results through coaching, delegation, and follow-through. A track record of turning around plant performance and a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in high-speed manufacturing.
• Food or beverage manufacturing experience is not specified in the ad.

Responsibilities

• Lead production, warehouse operations, and plant teams.
• Drive safety, quality, sanitation, and SQF compliance.
• Improve yield, labor efficiency, costs, and customer service.
• Set clear expectations, communicate priorities, and recognize achievements.
• Identify root causes and implement lasting operational improvements.

Skills

10+ years experience

Leadership experience

Turnaround track record

People development

Delegation and coaching

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Job description

Are you a manufacturing leader who knows how to improve performance— and bring people along with you?

Our client, a leading CPG manufacturer, has an immediate need for a Plant Manager. The successful candidate will lead all manufacturing operations, strengthen plant performance, and build an engaged, accountable team.

This opportunity calls for a leader who is visible on the floor, understands daily operations, and achieves results through effective delegation, coaching, and follow-through.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead production, warehouse operations, and plant teams
• Drive safety, food quality, sanitation, and SQF compliance
• Improve yield, labor efficiency, costs, and customer service
• Set clear expectations, communicate priorities, and recognize achievements
• Identify root causes and implement lasting operational improvements

What We’re Looking For:

• 10+ years of experience in high-speed manufacturing, including proven leadership experience
• Food or beverage manufacturing experience a MUST
• A track record of turning around plant performance
• The ability to motivate teams, earn trust, and create accountability
• Strong coaching and delegation skills—you develop leaders and empower others to deliver
• A collaborative, approachable style with the confidence to address difficult issues
• Sound judgment, adaptability, and a proactive approach to solving problems
• A commitment to building long-term success at the facility
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience;

Princeton Search Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer