Plant Operations Manager — Fast-Track to Plant Manager

Dana Kowen Associates - Executive Search to the Manufacturing Industry; Modesto (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation package

Strong bonus

9% 401(k) match

Tuition reimbursement

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Job summary

Dana Kowen Associates - Executive Search to the Manufacturing Industry is seeking a hands-on Plant Operations Manager for a flagship facility in the Food/Beverage/Pharma/CPG sector. This fast-paced role offers a clear, accelerated path to Plant Manager and a strong relocation package.

You will lead 150–300 employees, drive operational excellence, and collaborate across HR, Maintenance, QA and CI to meet production targets.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in Food, Beverage, Pharmaceutical, or CPG manufacturing.
• 7+ years in operations or plant leadership roles.
• Experience in medium-to-large facilities (400+ employees).
• Strong background in Continuous Improvement.
• Union experience is highly preferred.
• Proven ability to lead teams in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Passion for developing talent and driving engagement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production and planning within a large manufacturing facility.
• Drive operational excellence by implementing standard work and leading change management initiatives.
• Lead a 150–300 person team with two direct reports and develop talent.
• Collaborate with HR, Maintenance, Quality, and CI teams to meet production targets.

Skills

Leadership

Continuous Improvement

Operations Management

Team Development

Cross-functional Collaboration

Job description

Dana Kowen Associates - Executive Search to the Manufacturing Industry is seeking a hands-on Plant Operations Manager for a flagship facility in the Food/Beverage/Pharma/CPG sector. This fast-paced role offers a clear, accelerated path to Plant Manager and a strong relocation package.

You will lead 150–300 employees, drive operational excellence, and collaborate across HR, Maintenance, QA and CI to meet production targets.