Plant Manager / Packaging

Talent Wave Associates; Pleasant Prairie (WI); On-site; USD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading staffing agency is seeking an Operations Leader in Pleasant Prairie, WI. The ideal candidate will oversee production, drive team development, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree and 10+ years in manufacturing, demonstrating strong leadership and technical skills. This full-time role offers a competitive pay range of $150,000 to $180,000 annually, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and strategic execution.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of manufacturing experience, ideally in converting flexible materials.
• 5+ years of proven leadership experience.
• Strong background in performance management and coaching.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production and scheduling.
• Inspire and coach team members.
• Monitor performance to meet efficiency targets.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Analytical reasoning

Coaching

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Packaging, Management, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

ERP systems

Job description

Pay Range

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

Base Pay

$150,000.00/yr - $180,000.00/yr

Are you ready to lead a team towards operational excellence and innovation?

Key Responsibilities

Operations Leadership

• Oversee daily production, scheduling, maintenance, quality, and safety across multi-shift operations.
• Direct all plant operations including manufacturing engineering, facility management, and production.
• Manage operating costs within budget and evaluate performance using comprehensive KPIs.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Partner with Design and Integration Engineering to schedule and execute new product trials.

Team Development & Culture

• Inspire and coach long-tenured shift leads and operators to embrace lean manufacturing, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Champion company cultural principles: We Care More, Meet Your Commitments, Work on the Most Important Things.
• Lead succession planning by recruiting, training, and developing future leaders.
• Create personalized growth and development opportunities for team members.
• Set clear job expectations, monitor results, and provide feedback, coaching, and recognition.

Performance & Strategic Execution

• Deliver on metrics including productivity, yield, OEE, service, and safety while supporting company growth objectives.
• Monitor performance across all production lines to meet and exceed efficiency targets.
• Identify and resolve bottlenecks, driving continuous improvement and cost optimization.
• Participate in monthly P&L reviews, capital planning, and growth initiatives with the executive team.
• Establish and enforce manufacturing policies and procedures aligned with company strategy.

Compliance & Safety

• Maintain compliance with safety rules, SOPs, and regulatory standards.
• Promote a safe, clean work environment while reinforcing risk management processes.
• Collaborate with Quality teams to ensure audit readiness and SOP compliance.
• Oversee equipment maintenance and evaluate new equipment and technologies for improved performance.

Qualifications

Leadership & Management

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Packaging, Management, or related field.
• 10+ years of manufacturing experience, ideally in converting flexible materials/packaging.
• 5+ years of proven leadership managing people leaders and cross-functional teams.
• Strong background in performance management, coaching, and developing high-performing teams.
• Expertise in production planning, budget management, and strategic execution.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver results against KPIs.
• Leadership style marked by humility, credibility, and the ability to inspire change while balancing empathy with accountability.

Technical Skills

• Strong problem-solving and analytical reasoning abilities.
• Continuous Improvement leadership experience; Six Sigma Black Belt preferred.
• Proficiency in analyzing downtime, efficiency, and variance trends with corrective action planning.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite, MS Teams, ERP systems, and digital communication tools.
• High technical aptitude and adaptability to new systems.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication with the ability to engage all levels—from the plant floor to executive leadership.
• Excellent decision-making, listening, and organizational skills.
• Skilled in coaching, team building, and training.
• Exceptional time management and attention to detail.

At Talent Wave Associates, we connect outstanding talent with exceptional opportunities. We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to fostering an inclusive, people-first recruiting experience. Ready to ride the wave of opportunity? Apply today!

Seniority Level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type: Full‑time

Job Function: Management and Manufacturing Industries: Packaging and Containers Manufacturing