Plant Operations Leader - Lean Manufacturing & Safety

Dakkota Integrated Systems; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 150,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus/incentive pay

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Dakkota Integrated Systems in Chicago, IL is seeking a strategic Plant Manager to lead all manufacturing operations on-site. You will direct production, safety, quality, maintenance, and continuous improvement initiatives to drive efficiency and profitability.

This role reports to the VP of Operations as part of the Plant Leadership Team. The ideal candidate has 7+ years in automotive manufacturing with strong leadership, communication, and data-driven decision making.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing, operations management, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years in an automotive manufacturing environment with progressive leadership responsibilities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to interact with all levels of the organization including executive leadership.
• Proven ability to lead teams, delegate tasks, and manage priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze issues, develop solutions, and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and other relevant software tools.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of daily plant operations, including production, engineering, maintenance, materials, quality, HR, IT, and health & safety.
• Clearly communicate company and plant goals, expectations, and objectives to all employees.
• Lead management meetings, drive corrective actions, monitor performance, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams and external partners.
• Champion a Safety-First culture and ensure compliance with safety standards, policies, and procedures.
• Achieve profitability targets, execute business plans, and adjust strategies based on risk and opportunity analysis.
• Promote high levels of employee satisfaction, accountability, and professional development.
• Ensure successful launches of new programs, engineering changes, and model transitions.
• Maintain disaster preparedness and facility security in alignment with recovery plans.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure adherence to the Business Operating System.
• Uphold company vision, values, and operating philosophy while complying with the Employee Handbook and CBA.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing/operations management

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word/Excel)

Job description

Dakkota Integrated Systems in Chicago, IL is seeking a strategic Plant Manager to lead all manufacturing operations on-site. You will direct production, safety, quality, maintenance, and continuous improvement initiatives to drive efficiency and profitability.

This role reports to the VP of Operations as part of the Plant Leadership Team. The ideal candidate has 7+ years in automotive manufacturing with strong leadership, communication, and data-driven decision making.