Plant Manager

James Hardie Corporation; Prattville (AL); On-site; USD 175,000 - 225,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Low-cost health insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Paid holidays and vacation

Wellness program and parental leave

Job summary

James Hardie Corporation is looking for a Plant Manager in Prattville, Alabama. This critical role involves overseeing the daily operations of a large manufacturing facility, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across multiple production areas.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the manufacturing sector, along with strong leadership qualities and a proven track record in operational excellence. This position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 7–10+ years in manufacturing operations management, especially large-scale projects.
• 3–5 years in plant leadership or multi-department management.
• Significant experience with Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operations in a complex manufacturing plant.
• Develop strategies and goals aligned with corporate objectives.
• Implement safety and quality compliance standards.

Skills

Lean

Six Sigma

Operational Leadership

Strategic Management

Financial Analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field

MBA or advanced degree

Job description

The Plant Manager is a senior operational leader responsible for directing and optimizing the daily operations of a larger, more complex, or multi‑line manufacturing facility. This role oversees multiple layers of leadership—including supervisors, managers, engineers, and production teams—and is accountable for strategic planning, operational excellence, financial performance, and culture development within the plant.

A Plant Manager not only ensures efficient and safe production but also drives long‑term improvements, influences cross‑functional initiatives, and aligns plant operations with broader organizational strategies. Individuals in this role exhibit exceptional leadership, advanced operational expertise, and high‑level decision‑making abilities. They are expected to think proactively, mentor future leaders, and consistently deliver world‑class operational outcomes.

What You’ll Do:

Operational Leadership & Strategic Management

• Oversee complex or high‑volume manufacturing operations, ensuring consistent performance across multiple production areas.
• Develop multi‑year operational strategies aligned with corporate objectives.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives across quality, safety, production, and cost‑efficiency.
• Drive Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence frameworks throughout the plant.
• Plan and manage production capacity, asset utilization, and throughput to meet or exceed organizational targets.
• Monitor and improve key performance indicators (KPIs): OEE, scrap/rework, downtime, labor efficiency, and cost per unit.
• Implement advanced data‑driven processes to optimize workflow, reduce waste, and maximize resource allocation.

Financial & Budget Accountability

• Develop, maintain, and forecast annual operating budgets, capital expenditures, and cost‑control plans.
• Conduct financial analysis to improve margins, reduce costs, and support strategic investment decisions.
• Ensure high‑value ROI on equipment, technology upgrades, and process improvements.

Compliance, Safety & Quality

• Ensure strict adherence to all regulatory standards (OSHA, EPA, ISO, etc.).
• Champion a strong safety culture, owning all plant‑level EHS performance.
• Oversee quality management systems and ensure consistency with certification and industry standards.

Organizational & Talent Leadership

• Manage a larger leadership structure including supervisors, operations managers, engineering teams, and support staff.
• Develop managerial talent, succession plans, and high‑performance teams.
• Coach and mentor direct reports and emerging leaders to enhance operational capability and career growth.

Cross‑functional Collaboration

• Partner with Engineering, Supply Chain, HR, Finance, and Corporate Leadership to drive business initiatives.
• Support new product introductions, plant expansions, and technology integrations.
• Serve as a key voice in corporate initiatives affecting operations, safety, quality, and workforce development.

Communication & Reporting

• Deliver high‑impact operational reports and presentations to senior executives.
• Communicate plant performance, risks, and opportunities transparently.
• Build trust and alignment across all levels of the organization—from floor team members to executive leadership.

What You’ll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related field (required).
• MBA or advanced degree (preferred).
• Requires 7–10+ years in manufacturing operations, including experience managing large‑scale operations within manufacturing, multiple production lines, or a manufacturing plant with complex product workflows.
• 3–5 years in plant leadership or multi‑department management.
• Significant experience with Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.

What You’ll Receive:

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $175k to $225k. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits and bonus. The successful candidate will work in an engaged and collaborative work environment, make an impact on the organization and enjoy career growth at James Hardie.

The position’s benefits include:

• Comprehensive low‑cost co‑pay health insurance; medical, dental, prescription, and vision insurance benefits for every 30+ hour full‑time employee. Insurance starts on day one!
• 401(k) Retirement plan that will match 100% of employees saved dollars up to the first 6% of your salary.
• Paid holidays, paid vacation, including Jury Duty and bereavement leave
• Wellness Program, Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.

James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.

The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and or assigned as necessary.