Plant Manager

Nero Search; Michigan; On-site; USD 160,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in food manufacturing seeks a Plant Manager to oversee daily operations and quality control. The role requires a hands-on leader with experience in managing large teams and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. The ideal candidate will drive operational efficiency and foster a culture of accountability and teamwork. This position offers a competitive salary and relocation assistance to the Detroit suburbs.

Benefits

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Cash sign-on bonus for relocation

Qualifications

• At least 7 years of leadership experience in food manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations (FDA, USDA, HACCP, SQF).
• Proven record in operational efficiency and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Oversee plant operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and cost control.
• Lead quality assurance to meet product specifications and regulatory standards.
• Ensure compliance with FDA, OSHA, SQF, HACCP regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-Solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Food Science, Operations

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

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This range is provided by Nero Search. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$160,000.00/yr - $200,000.00/yr

Direct message the job poster from Nero Search

Executive & Professional Search | Partner to Private Equity Portfolio & SME Private Companies | Finance Operations & Sales Leadership

RELOCATION TO DETROIT SUBURBS REQUIRED

[There will be a cash sign-on bonus provided to assist with relocation]

The Plant Manager oversees daily manufacturing operations and Quality Control at a fast-paced food manufacturing facility, ensuring safety, efficiency, and high-quality production.

• This plant is in growth mode, expanding clients and products with significant market opportunity.
• Ideal for a hands-on plant leader who enjoys walking the plant, has autonomy to set up structures, drive change, and implement improvements.
• Responsible for managing budgets, optimizing labor and waste reduction across all costs.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Reports to the VP of Operations.
• Leads a salaried staff of 5-10.
• Accountable for approximately 300 hourly non-union employees.

Key Responsibilities:

Operations & Financial Management

• Oversee plant operations to ensure efficiency, quality, cost control, and food safety compliance.
• Manage budgets and utilize KPIs and data-driven decision-making.
• Build a high-performance, metrics-driven team aligned with business objectives.

Quality & Customer Satisfaction

• Lead quality assurance to meet product specifications and regulatory standards.
• Maintain sanitation and allergen controls to uphold safety and integrity.
• Address customer complaints, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.

Regulatory Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with FDA, OSHA, SQF, HACCP, and other regulations.
• Conduct safety audits and promote a safety-first culture.
• Implement food safety and sanitation programs.
• Drive process improvements using Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement tools.
• Provide hands-on troubleshooting to minimize downtime.

Leadership & Talent Development

• Build and mentor operational and QC teams through coaching.
• Foster a culture of accountability and teamwork.
• Maintain a strong leadership presence on the floor to promote engagement and excellence.

Strategic Growth & Innovation

• Lead integration of new production and packaging capabilities.
• Identify and implement technologies to enhance efficiency and quality.
• Develop and execute strategic plans aligned with company growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Food Science, Operations, or related field.
• At least 7 years of leadership experience in food manufacturing, with 5+ in plant management.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations (FDA, USDA, HACCP, SQF) and audit management.
• Proven record in operational efficiency, cost control, and continuous improvement.
• Experience leading large teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems, data analysis, and manufacturing metrics.
• (Preferred) Certifications in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or related areas.

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Manufacturing

Industries

• Food and Beverage Manufacturing, Wholesale Food and Beverage, Food Retail

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Inferred benefits from the job description

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

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