Plant Operations Leader: Lean & Continuous Improvement

Judge Direct Placement; Springfield (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Judge Direct Placement is seeking a Plant Manager for the Springfield, IL area. The role provides leadership across plant operations, including safety, quality, production, maintenance, and the supply chain, with accountability for scheduling, process improvement, and cost efficiency.

The position requires proven leadership in a manufacturing setting, a Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Operations/Business, and experience with Lean manufacturing principles.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, or Business.
• Proven leadership experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Experience leading high-volume, multi-line production.
• Experience implementing lean manufacturing and CI methods.
• Ability to lead and retain both hourly and salaried staff.
• Hands-on leadership with strong floor presence.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for plant operations including safety, quality, production, maintenance, and supply chain.
• Ensure on-time production across multiple lines and shifts.
• Drive improvements in OEE, productivity, and cost efficiency.
• Maintain regulatory compliance and operational excellence.
• Lead capital projects and equipment performance initiatives.
• Apply Lean principles to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
• Foster safety-first culture and regulatory compliance.
• Develop and mentor plant teams including hourly and salaried staff.
• Communicate across all levels and align with corporate strategy.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Lean manufacturing

Safety compliance

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Operations/Business

Job description

Judge Direct Placement is seeking a Plant Manager for the Springfield, IL area. The role provides leadership across plant operations, including safety, quality, production, maintenance, and the supply chain, with accountability for scheduling, process improvement, and cost efficiency.

The position requires proven leadership in a manufacturing setting, a Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Operations/Business, and experience with Lean manufacturing principles.