Plant Operations Leader | Scale Production & Safety

Talent Wave Associates; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equal Opportunity Employer

Job summary

Talent Wave Associates is seeking a strategic leader to manage all aspects of plant performance in a dynamic production environment. The role oversees production, maintenance, staffing, and safety to create scalable systems and optimize assets.

The candidate will lead facility operations, drive cost efficiency, and develop staffing strategies while championing safety and regulatory compliance. Experience with ERP, lean manufacturing, and strong financial acumen is essential for success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or equivalent experience.
• 10+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing with production, maintenance, and finance exposure.
• Proven experience managing large teams in fast-paced settings.
• Strong understanding of financial metrics and operational KPIs.
• Experience in plant commissioning or start-up environments is a plus.
• Knowledge of ERP, inventory control, and lean manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Lead Facility Operations: manage daily production to meet delivery, quality, and safety standards.
• Drive Cost Efficiency: monitor performance to reduce costs and support budgets.
• Talent Leadership: develop staffing strategies for an engaged workforce.
• Process Optimization: implement initiatives for efficiency and waste reduction.
• Safety & Compliance Oversight: promote zero-incident culture and regulatory compliance.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: collaborate with teams to align plant functions.
• Budgeting & Forecasting: manage budgets, forecasts, and capacity plans.
• Asset and Infrastructure Management: maintain systems and machinery to prevent downtime.
• Customer & Supplier Interface: liaise for client visits and supplier relationships.
• Strategic Reporting: provide KPI insights, cost trends, and compliance status.

Skills

Leadership

Manufacturing

Finance

Operational KPIs

ERP knowledge

Lean manufacturing

Team management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

ERP systems

Inventory control

Job description

Talent Wave Associates is seeking a strategic leader to manage all aspects of plant performance in a dynamic production environment. The role oversees production, maintenance, staffing, and safety to create scalable systems and optimize assets.

The candidate will lead facility operations, drive cost efficiency, and develop staffing strategies while championing safety and regulatory compliance. Experience with ERP, lean manufacturing, and strong financial acumen is essential for success.