Plant Operations Leader — Lean & Quality Excellence

Howmet; Skokie (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Job summary

Howmet Aerospace Inc. in Skokie, IL, seeks a seasoned Plant Manager to lead manufacturing strategy and operations at the site. You will drive Lean initiatives, optimize costs, and lead plant teams to ensure on-time delivery and quality.

The role requires 5–7 years of plant management experience in manufacturing, strong financial acumen, and proven ability to manage complex projects in a fast-paced CNC machining or metal forming environment. Willingness to travel and relocate as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) is required.
• Advanced Degree is preferred.
• 5–7 years of plant management experience in manufacturing is preferred.
• Proven lean manufacturing experience.
• Experience in a fast-paced CNC machining or metal forming operation.

Responsibilities

• Develops and drives the plant manufacturing strategy to increase profits, customer satisfaction and operational effectiveness.
• Sets performance targets and ensures achievement through improvement actions for cost, on-time delivery and cash flow.
• Leads and manages manufacturing function and plant teams; implements and improves manufacturing technology and competence.
• Drives quality improvements; ensures compliance with standards and drives productivity and cost optimization.
• Delivers customer satisfaction targets (OTD, lead time, quality) through effective resource improvements.
• Implements Health, Safety & Environment standards and ensures a safe working environment.
• Ensures CAM standards and governance for operations and shares best practices.
• Develops talent, staffs the area, and fosters a positive, high-performing culture.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

People leadership

Financial acumen

Communication

Travel willingness

Team collaboration

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Advanced Degree preferred

Tools

CNC machining

Metal forming

Job description

Howmet Aerospace Inc. in Skokie, IL, seeks a seasoned Plant Manager to lead manufacturing strategy and operations at the site. You will drive Lean initiatives, optimize costs, and lead plant teams to ensure on-time delivery and quality.

The role requires 5–7 years of plant management experience in manufacturing, strong financial acumen, and proven ability to manage complex projects in a fast-paced CNC machining or metal forming environment. Willingness to travel and relocate as needed.