Plant Manager - Plainwell Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Plainwell (MI); On-site; USD 139,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is seeking a Plant Manager in Plainwell, MI to oversee all daily plant operations, drive production efficiency, and lead a high-performing team. The role emphasizes safety, quality, waste reduction, and continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment.

Competitive salary and a leadership-focused career path are offered, with opportunities to collaborate with cross-functional teams and align with strategic business objectives in the Plainwell region.

Qualifications

• 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 and reducing costs.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily plant operations for optimal efficiency and productivity.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve production targets and business objectives.
• Manage departmental budgets, control costs, and identify areas for financial improvement.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety regulations, quality standards, and environmental compliance.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Drive process optimization initiatives to enhance manufacturing capabilities and reduce waste.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve operational issues and improve overall plant performance.

Skills

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Communication

Problem-solving

Continuous improvement

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or business

Job description

Plant Manager | Plainwell, MI

Salary Range: $139,000 - $190,000 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 Plainwell 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 collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Plainwell region seeking Plant Managers. These employers partner with us because they want real insight into candidates—not just resumes. By joining our network, you gain access to roles worth considering.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily plant operations for optimal efficiency and productivity.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve production targets and business objectives.
• Manage departmental budgets, control costs, and identify areas for financial improvement.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety regulations, quality standards, and environmental compliance.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Drive process optimization initiatives to enhance manufacturing capabilities and reduce waste.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve operational issues and improve overall plant performance.

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 and reducing costs
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills

Bonus Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or higher certification
• Experience with automation and advanced manufacturing technologies (e.g., robotics, AI, IoT)
• Master's degree in a related field (e.g., MBA, Engineering Management)
• Demonstrated success in implementing and managing sustainability initiatives
• Bilingual proficiency, especially in languages relevant to the workforce or supply chain

Job Titles That Should Apply

Plant Manager,Manufacturing Manager,Operations Manager,Production Manager,Factory Manager,General Manager (Manufacturing),Site Manager (Manufacturing),Production Operations Manager,Plant Operations 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.