Plant Operations Leader: Lean, Safety & Performance

Judge Direct Placement; Springfield (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Judge Direct Placement seeks a Plant Manager to lead operations in the Springfield, IL area. You will direct safety, quality, production, maintenance, and supply chain functions to drive performance across the plant.

You will champion Lean manufacturing, CI programs, and cost improvements while developing hourly and salaried teams, ensuring regulatory compliance and alignment with corporate strategy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Operations or Business.
• Proven leadership experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Proven success managing high-volume, multi-line production.
• Experience implementing lean manufacturing, CI systems, and problem-solving methods.
• Proven ability to lead, develop and retain both hourly & salary employees.
• Hands on leadership, with strong floor presence.

Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and direction for plant operations, including safety, quality, production, maintenance, and supply chain functions.
• Ensure consistent and reliable execution of production schedules across multiple lines and shifts.
• Drive continuous improvement in Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), productivity, and cost efficiency.
• Uphold high standards for product quality, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.
• Lead capital projects and oversee equipment performance and facility reliability initiatives.
• Implement Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement programs to reduce waste and enhance efficiency.
• Champion process optimization efforts and drive initiatives to reduce scrap and improve yield.
• Foster a safety-first culture and ensure full compliance with all regulatory and environmental requirements.
• Lead programs that prioritize the safety and well-being of employees, customers, and the community.
• Ensure strict adherence to quality standards and customer specifications.
• Identify operational risks proactively and implement mitigation strategies.
• Manage plant performance against financial and operational targets, ensuring accountability at all levels.
• Develop and execute plans to optimize cost structure and improve overall operational performance.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to drive results.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning processes.
• Build, lead, and develop high-performing teams of hourly and salaried employees.
• Promote a culture of engagement, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Coach and mentor supervisors and frontline leaders to strengthen leadership capabilities.
• Drive employee retention, development, and succession planning initiatives.
• Maintain strong employee relations and a positive, inclusive work environment.
• Align plant operations with corporate strategy and cross-functional objectives.
• Communicate effectively across all levels, from frontline employees to executive leadership.
• Serve as the primary representative of the plant within the broader organization.
• Encourage collaboration and teamwork across all functional areas.

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, Operations or Business

Job description

Judge Direct Placement seeks a Plant Manager to lead operations in the Springfield, IL area. You will direct safety, quality, production, maintenance, and supply chain functions to drive performance across the plant.

You will champion Lean manufacturing, CI programs, and cost improvements while developing hourly and salaried teams, ensuring regulatory compliance and alignment with corporate strategy.