Plant Operations Leader — Lean, Safety & Quality

Gateway Group Personnel; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 110,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Gateway Group Personnel is helping a well-established manufacturing organization recruit a Plant Manager to lead full-site operations, driving performance across production, safety, quality, and continuous improvement. This high-impact role oversees all plant functions, develops teams, and ensures operational excellence in a fast-paced environment.

The Plant Manager will champion lean practices, manage budgets, and collaborate with engineering, supply chain, and leadership to deliver exceptional

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Management, Business, or related field preferred.
• Proven leadership experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong background in lean manufacturing, quality systems, and safety programs.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, drive accountability, and improve operational performance.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead all day-to-day plant operations including production, maintenance, and quality.
• Drive a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with all regulatory and environmental standards.
• Execute operational strategies to meet production targets and customer delivery expectations.
• Monitor KPIs and implement improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Manage workforce planning, employee development, and performance management.
• Oversee budgets, capital resources, and equipment utilization.
• Partner cross-functionally with engineering, supply chain, and leadership on process improvements and new product initiatives.
• Champion lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives across the plant.

Skills

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Operations management

Quality systems

Safety programs

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Gateway Group Personnel is helping a well-established manufacturing organization recruit a Plant Manager to lead full-site operations, driving performance across production, safety, quality, and continuous improvement. This high-impact role oversees all plant functions, develops teams, and ensures operational excellence in a fast-paced environment.

The Plant Manager will champion lean practices, manage budgets, and collaborate with engineering, supply chain, and leadership to deliver exceptional