Plant Manager - Rockford Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Rockford (MI); On-site; USD 137,000 - 188,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is seeking a Plant Manager to lead manufacturing operations in Rockford, MI. You will drive daily plant performance, develop strategic plans to hit production targets, and mentor a diverse team while upholding safety and quality standards.

This role emphasizes Lean principles, cost control, cross-functional collaboration, and strong leadership to improve efficiency and plant results in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
• 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations.
• Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
• Strong understanding of safety regulations and ISO quality management systems.
• Experience managing budgets and driving cost reduction.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership 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 and mentor a diverse team, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure adherence to safety regulations, quality standards, and environmental compliance.
• Optimize resource allocation to minimize costs and maximize output.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through Lean manufacturing and other methodologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet customer demands.
• Manage operational budgets, control expenses, and identify cost-reduction opportunities.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Safety knowledge

Quality awareness

Education

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

Tools

ERP software

Job description

Plant Manager | Rockford, MI

Salary Range: $137,000 - $188,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled professional with a passion for leading manufacturing operations and driving plant performance? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We are collaborating with companies in Rockford seeking experienced 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 partner with manufacturers across Rockford seeking Plant Managers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

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 and mentor a diverse team, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety regulations, quality standards, and environmental compliance.
• Optimize resource allocation, including labor, materials, and equipment, to minimize costs and maximize output.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through Lean manufacturing principles and other methodologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including sales, engineering, and supply chain, to meet customer demands.
• Manage operational budgets, control expenses, and identify opportunities for cost reduction.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field
• 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations
• Proven track record in lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and operational excellence
• Strong understanding of safety regulations and quality management systems (e.g., ISO)
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, drive cost reduction, and optimize production efficiency
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills

Bonus Qualifications

• Six Sigma Black Belt certification
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
• Proficiency in using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software for production planning and inventory management
• Master's degree in a related field (e.g., Engineering Management, Business Administration)

Job Titles That Should Apply

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