Plant Manager

James Hardie•Pulaski, VA

1d•$190,000 - $215,000

About The Position

The Plant Manager is a senior operational leader responsible for directing and optimizing daily operations at a larger, more complex, or multi-line manufacturing facility. The role oversees multiple levels of leadership, including supervisors, managers, engineers, and production teams, and is accountable for strategic planning, operational excellence, financial performance, and culture development within the plant. The Plant Manager ensures safe and efficient production while driving long-term improvements, influencing cross-functional initiatives, and aligning plant operations with broader organizational strategies. The role calls for exceptional leadership, advanced operational expertise, proactive decision-making, mentorship of future leaders, and consistent delivery of world-class operational outcomes. The role requires a bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field, along with 7–10+ years of manufacturing operations experience and 3–5 years in plant leadership or multi-department management. An MBA or advanced degree is preferred. The stated pay range is $190,000 to $215,000, with placement depending on factors such as experience, skills, geography, and internal equity. The position qualifies for benefits and participation in a bonus plan.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field.
7–10+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, including managing large-scale operations, multiple production lines, or a plant with complex product workflows.
3–5 years of experience in plant leadership or multi-department management.
Significant experience with Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Nice To Haves

MBA or advanced degree.

Responsibilities

Oversee complex or high-volume manufacturing operations and ensure consistent performance across multiple production areas.
Develop multi-year operational strategies aligned with corporate objectives.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives in quality, safety, production, and cost efficiency.
Drive Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence frameworks throughout the plant.
Plan and manage production capacity, asset utilization, and throughput to meet or exceed organizational targets.
Monitor and improve KPIs, including OEE, scrap and rework, downtime, labor efficiency, and cost per unit.
Implement data-driven processes to optimize workflow, reduce waste, and maximize resource allocation.
Develop, maintain, and forecast annual operating budgets, capital expenditures, and cost-control plans.
Conduct financial analysis to improve margins, reduce costs, and support strategic investment decisions.
Ensure equipment, technology upgrades, and process improvements deliver strong ROI.
Ensure adherence to regulatory standards, including OSHA, EPA, and ISO requirements.
Lead plant-level EHS performance and champion a strong safety culture.
Oversee quality management systems and ensure consistency with certification and industry standards.
Manage a leadership structure that includes supervisors, operations managers, engineering teams, and support staff.
Develop managerial talent, succession plans, and high-performance teams.
Coach and mentor direct reports and emerging leaders to strengthen operational capability and support career growth.
Partner with Engineering, Supply Chain, HR, Finance, and Corporate Leadership on business initiatives.
Support new product introductions, plant expansions, and technology integrations.
Represent operations in corporate initiatives affecting operations, safety, quality, and workforce development.
Deliver operational reports and presentations to senior executives.
Communicate plant performance, risks, and opportunities transparently.
Build trust and alignment across organizational levels, from floor team members to executive leadership.