Plant Manager - Zeeland Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Zeeland (MI); On-site; USD 134,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is seeking an experienced Plant Manager for Zeeland, MI, to lead manufacturing operations, drive continuous improvement, and ensure safety and quality across the plant. This role emphasizes strong people leadership, budget discipline, and cross-functional collaboration to meet production goals.

Ideal candidates bring extensive leadership experience in manufacturing, a solid Lean/Six Sigma foundation, and a track record of operational excellence in regulated environments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
• 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations.
• Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Track record in managing multi-disciplinary teams and driving operational excellence.
• Strong financial acumen with budget management and cost control.
• Regulatory compliance and safety standards within manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily plant operations, including production, quality, maintenance, and safety.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to hit production targets and cost targets.
• Mentor and develop plant staff, fostering continuous improvement and teamwork.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and policies.
• Optimize resource allocation (labor, materials, equipment) to maximize productivity.
• Lead lean initiatives and data-driven decision making.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet customer demands.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

People Management

Budget Management

Regulatory Compliance

Safety Standards

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Business

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Job description

Plant Manager | Zeeland, MI

Salary Range: $134,000 - $185,000 depending on experience

Are you a meticulous 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 fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We are collaborating with companies in Zeeland 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 are collaborating with multiple companies in Zeeland 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 plant staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and teamwork.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, environmental standards, and company policies.
• Optimize resource allocation, including labor, materials, and equipment, to maximize productivity and minimize waste.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through lean manufacturing principles and data-driven decision making.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including sales, engineering, and supply chain, to meet customer demands and business objectives.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field
• 7-10 years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations
• Proven track record in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies
• Demonstrated ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams and drive operational excellence
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budget management and cost control
• Expertise in regulatory compliance and safety standards within a manufacturing environment

Bonus Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
• Project management certification (e.g., PMP)
• Bilingual proficiency (especially Spanish)
• OSHA 30-hour certification

Job Titles That Should Apply

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