Plant Manager: Hands-On Lean Ops Leader

Greif; Longview (WA); On-site; USD 119,000 - 203,000; Full time

Job summary

Greif is seeking a hands-on Plant Manager to lead our Tubes & Cores manufacturing facility in Longview, Washington. This role requires a mechanical mindset, people development, and a drive for continuous improvement, in a smaller single-shift operation where leadership directly impacts plant performance.

You’ll lead daily operations for 15–20 associates, champion safety, and drive Lean initiatives while coordinating across departments to meet production goals and future facility needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Manufacturing leadership experience with a hands-on, plant-floor leadership style.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of manufacturing equipment and processes.
• Proven ability to identify inefficiencies and implement practical improvements.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing or other continuous improvement practices.
• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Experience leading teams in a union manufacturing environment preferred.
• Ability to coach, develop, and hold teams accountable for results.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily manufacturing operations and approximately 15–20 associates in a union environment.
• Drive improvements in safety, productivity, efficiency, quality, and equipment performance.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, reduce waste, and increase operational efficiency.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement principles to strengthen plant performance.
• Monitor production goals and performance and take corrective action when needed.
• Take a hands-on approach to understanding equipment and process challenges and developing practical solutions.
• Coach, develop, and engage associates while promoting accountability and positive colleague relations.
• Champion safe work practices and maintain a strong safety culture.
• Support production planning, budgeting, and future facility needs.
• Partner with other departments to achieve plant and business objectives.

Skills

Manufacturing leadership

Mechanical aptitude

Lean manufacturing

Problem solving

Team leadership

Union environment experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Job description

Greif is seeking a hands-on Plant Manager to lead our Tubes & Cores manufacturing facility in Longview, Washington. This role requires a mechanical mindset, people development, and a drive for continuous improvement, in a smaller single-shift operation where leadership directly impacts plant performance.

You’ll lead daily operations for 15–20 associates, champion safety, and drive Lean initiatives while coordinating across departments to meet production goals and future facility needs.