Startup Plant Manager — Lean Manufacturing Leader

Smardt; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary + annual bonus

100% employer-paid medical and dental

Tele-Health services

Retirement savings plan with employer

Team events and training

Job summary

Smardt is seeking a Plant Manager to lead the startup and eventual operation of the Phoenix manufacturing facility. You will build the plant organization, implement world-class manufacturing practices, and guide production, maintenance, and quality through the ramp-up to meet cost, quality, and delivery targets.

The role requires strong leadership, Lean manufacturing expertise, and a track record in Greenfield/Brownfield projects within HVAC or complex assembly environments.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of manufacturing operations experience
• 5+ years in a Plant Manager or equivalent leadership role
• Experience with Greenfield/Brownfield startups and HVAC/assembly environments

Responsibilities

• Lead site startup and commissioning of the Phoenix facility.
• Define facility layout, equipment needs, and production line setup.
• Oversee construction, utilities, and EHS readiness.
• Recruitment planning for all plant functions.
• Establish procedures for production flow, safety, movement of materials, and shopfloor control.
• Collaborate with Corporate Engineering, Supply Chain, and Quality to meet Smardt global standards.
• Install and validate machinery, tooling and ERP systems (NAV/BC or equivalent).
• Ensure regulatory compliance and create initial budget and KPIs.

Skills

Strong leadership

Lean manufacturing

ERP systems

Analytical problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

NAV/Business Central

Manufacturing dashboards

Job description

Smardt is seeking a Plant Manager to lead the startup and eventual operation of the Phoenix manufacturing facility. You will build the plant organization, implement world-class manufacturing practices, and guide production, maintenance, and quality through the ramp-up to meet cost, quality, and delivery targets.

The role requires strong leadership, Lean manufacturing expertise, and a track record in Greenfield/Brownfield projects within HVAC or complex assembly environments.