Plant Manager - Kentwood Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Kentwood (MI); On-site; USD 135,000 - 186,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is actively connecting manufacturing leaders with opportunities in Kentwood, Michigan. We seek an experienced Plant Manager to oversee daily operations, drive safety, quality, and productivity, and mentor a high-performing team.

Role focuses on long-term fit and alignment with partner companies in West Michigan's manufacturing sector. Qualified candidates bring 7+ years of leadership in manufacturing, a lean mindset, and strong budgets/P&L experience.

Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor's degree in engineering, business administration, or related field.
• 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations.
• Proven track record of improving production efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily plant operations, including production, quality, maintenance, and safety.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to meet targets, cost efficiencies, and quality.
• Mentor a diverse team of supervisors and employees toward continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and policies.
• Optimize labor, materials, and equipment to maximize productivity and profitability.
• Collaborate with sales, engineering, and supply chain to meet customer demands.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Lean manufacturing

Budget management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Infor

Job description

Plant Manager | Kentwood, MI

Salary Range: $135,000 - $186,000 depending on experience

Are you ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity in {{role_field}}? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to building meaningful connections in manufacturing. We partner with leading companies in Kentwood seeking Plant Managers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with multiple companies in Kentwood seeking experienced Plant Managers. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily plant operations, including production, quality, maintenance, and safety.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to achieve production targets, cost efficiencies, and quality standards.
• Manage and mentor a diverse team of supervisors and employees, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, environmental standards, and company policies.
• Optimize resource allocation, including labor, materials, and equipment, to maximize plant productivity and profitability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as sales, engineering, and supply chain, to meet customer demands and drive product innovation.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations.
• Proven track record of improving production efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience managing budgets, P&L, and capital projects.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams.

Bonus Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification or higher
• Experience with a modern ERP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Infor)
• PMP certification or demonstrated experience managing large projects
• Bilingual proficiency, especially in Spanish

Job Titles That Should Apply

Operations Manager,Production Manager,Manufacturing Manager,Factory Manager,General Manager (Plant),Site Manager,Plant Operations Director,Production Operations Manager,Industrial Plant Manager,Manufacturing Operations Manager

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.