Plant Operations Manager: Lean Excellence & Safety

Howmet Aerospace; Whitehall Township (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Howmet Aerospace in Whitehall, MI, is seeking a staff-level manufacturing leader to drive excellence in production, quality, and efficiency. You will lead teams, manage shop-floor discipline, and champion lean initiatives to improve OEE and customer satisfaction.

The role requires strong leadership, analytical and communication skills, with experience in manufacturing and ideally investment casting. On-site environment with a focus on safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• HS Diploma or GED required; 7 years in manufacturing or 5 years in leadership with prior leadership of other leaders.
• Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States; no visa sponsorship.
• Bachelor's Degree preferred.
• Experience in investment casting industry a plus; strong leadership to drive lean improvements.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for manufacturing excellence, ensuring customer satisfaction and continuous improvement of plant performance metrics (quality, productivity, cycle time, delivery, cash flow).
• Follow Safety Regulations and department safety requirements.
• Manage OEE and daily targets for shipments; focus on cost reductions and profitability.
• Improve manufacturing planning, execution, and shop floor discipline; lead ABS and lean initiatives.
• Develop and train plant teams; address safety issues promptly.
• Maintain good relations with customers and communicate across levels.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Education

HS Diploma or GED

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Lean manufacturing tools

Job description

Howmet Aerospace in Whitehall, MI, is seeking a staff-level manufacturing leader to drive excellence in production, quality, and efficiency. You will lead teams, manage shop-floor discipline, and champion lean initiatives to improve OEE and customer satisfaction.

The role requires strong leadership, analytical and communication skills, with experience in manufacturing and ideally investment casting. On-site environment with a focus on safety and continuous improvement.