Plant Manager

Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.•Houston, TX

About The Position

We’re seeking a results-driven Plant Manager to provide overall leadership and strategic direction for a large and/or complex manufacturing facility (or multiple plants). In this role, you’ll be accountable for plant performance across safety, quality, cost, service, and people—while fostering a strong culture of continuous improvement. This role may include responsibility for assistant plant managers and senior leaders and plays a critical role in driving operational excellence and long-term business success.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent (required)
8+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment
2+ years of management experience
Demonstrated success improving safety, quality, service, and cost performance
Strong understanding of manufacturing process flow and continuous improvement methodologies
Solid knowledge of regulatory requirements and facility compliance standards
Proven financial acumen, including budgeting and cost control
Effective leader and coach with experience developing high-performing teams
Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
Ability to make independent decisions and manage multiple priorities
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills across all levels of the organization
Comfortable navigating change and leading through complexity
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing systems
Fluent in English (reading, writing, and speaking)

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a related field (preferred)
Food and/or beverage manufacturing experience strongly preferred
Required certifications/licenses may be obtained during employment

Responsibilities

Direct and oversee all plant operations, including production, processing, packaging, quality, maintenance, warehousing, shipping, purchasing, safety, and environmental compliance.
Set production priorities and optimize the use of labor, equipment, and resources to meet safety, quality, sanitation, and cost standards.
Analyze production, quality, maintenance, and operational data to identify trends, address gaps, and ensure compliance with product specifications, customer requirements, and regulatory standards.
Ensure immediate escalation and resolution of non-compliance issues per established protocols.
Champion a culture of Continuous Improvement (CI) focused on productivity, quality, cost, safety, and employee engagement.
Develop, monitor, and drive key performance indicators (KPIs) across safety, quality, productivity, and financial performance.
Evaluate plant operations to maintain an industry leadership position and adopt new technologies, processes, and best practices.
Own plant P&L performance and partner with Finance to deliver accurate forecasting, budgeting, and month-end close activities.
Lead the development and execution of annual operating, capital, and expense budgets.
Manage capital and expense projects to support plant growth and efficiency.
Lead, coach, and develop plant leadership teams; provide mentoring, training, and performance feedback.
Recruit, hire, evaluate, and retain top talent using sound judgment within HR policies and practices.
Build strong succession plans and support career development for high-potential leaders.
Communicate company strategy, plant goals, and performance expectations clearly and consistently across all levels.
Oversee all corporate, customer, and government audits, ensuring audit readiness and compliance.
Maintain safe working conditions and full compliance with company, state, and federal health, safety, food safety, and environmental regulations.
Partner with customers to meet expectations related to service, quality, operations, and financial performance.
Ensure compliance with all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and company regulatory standards.