Plant Operations Leader: Startup Production & CI

Connect Search, LLC; Oshkosh (WI); On-site; USD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Connect Search, LLC in Oshkosh, WI is hiring a Plant Operations Manager to lead startup, commissioning, and ramp-up of a new facility. You will drive daily manufacturing operations, safety, quality, cost control, and continuous improvement initiatives while aligning with customer schedules.

The role requires strong leadership in Lean manufacturing, operational excellence, and the ability to recruit and develop production supervisors and hourly staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• 5+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience.
• Strong project management experience, including planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and execution.
• Experience managing hourly manufacturing employees.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, and operational excellence principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational aspects of facility startup, commissioning, and production ramp-up
• Monitor project progress and proactively address risks, delays, and resource constraints
• Ensure all startup deliverables are completed safely, on time, and within budget
• Manage day-to-day manufacturing operations to achieve production, quality, safety, and cost objectives
• Manage all fabrication, welding, assembly, painting, sandblasting, and finishing operations
• Monitor work-in-process and finished goods to ensure timely completion
• Establish standard operating procedures, work instructions, and operational controls
• Implement performance metrics and reporting systems to monitor operational effectiveness
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, efficiency, quality, and waste reduction
• Ensure production schedules are met while maintaining customer service expectations
• Recruit, hire, train, and develop production supervisors, leads, and hourly employees
• Establish a culture of accountability, teamwork, engagement, and continuous improvement
• Provide coaching, performance management, and employee development opportunities
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with all company, OSHA, environmental, and regulatory requirements
• Implement safety programs, training, and risk mitigation strategies
• Support equipment installation, validation, and operational readiness activities; ensure plant equipment, tools, and facilities are properly maintained; coordinate preventive maintenance programs
• Oversee inspection processes, quality documentation, and product tagging requirements
• Investigate quality concerns and implement corrective actions
• Oversee shipping, receiving, material handling, and inventory control activities
• Ensure accurate inventory counts and proper material storage
• Coordinate outbound shipments to meet customer delivery schedules
• Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with purchasing to prevent shortages
• Monitor labor, material, and operating costs
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality and performance standards
• Support capital expenditure planning and justification for equipment and facility investments

Skills

Manufacturing leadership

Lean Manufacturing

Continuous Improvement

Operational excellence

Project management

Experience managing hourly employees

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related field

Job description

Connect Search, LLC in Oshkosh, WI is hiring a Plant Operations Manager to lead startup, commissioning, and ramp-up of a new facility. You will drive daily manufacturing operations, safety, quality, cost control, and continuous improvement initiatives while aligning with customer schedules.

The role requires strong leadership in Lean manufacturing, operational excellence, and the ability to recruit and develop production supervisors and hourly staff.