Plant Operations Manager

Colgate • Cambridge, OH

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Plant Operations Manager is responsible for holistic management of all production operations within the facility, including packaging, filling, and vertical integration. The role bridges site leadership and shop-floor execution, driving world-class manufacturing through high-performing teams, strategic resource utilization, continuous improvement, and a strong focus on safety. The position is based in Cambridge, Ohio, and is listed as on-site. Relocation assistance is offered within the country.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Chemical or Mechanical preferred), Chemistry, or a related technical field.
• At least 8 years of progressive Supply Chain or Manufacturing experience, including at least 8 years in a management role.
• At least 5 years of experience with SAP or similar Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.
• Familiarity with Wonderware, Opera, or similar SCADA/MES systems.
• Deep understanding of EHS standards and experience working in regulated environments, including FDA, EPA, and OSHA contexts.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to simplify complex operational data for key stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

• MBA or a master’s degree in an Engineering or Technical field.
• Six Sigma Black Belt or Lean Manufacturing certification.
• Experience in P&L management and/or working in a unionized manufacturing environment.
• Mastery of ISO 9000 and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).

Responsibilities

• Lead plant operations to achieve and exceed KPIs in Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS), quality, productivity, and efficiency.
• Develop and execute strategic procedures to increase facility-wide productivity and on-time customer delivery.
• Facilitate strategic change management and develop contingency plans to support business continuity in volatile environments.
• Develop and implement sustainability processes based on lean manufacturing principles for long-term plant success.
• Drive continuous improvement to reduce conversion costs and scrap, optimize capital and inventory, and improve factory cash flow.
• Implement and sustain Factory Performance & Reliability (FP&R) standards, particularly Autonomous Maintenance, Visual Workplace, and 5S.
• Develop and mentor future company leaders.
• Recommend and implement organizational structure changes based on technology and business changes.
• Cultivate a Lean-First environment in which front-line autonomy is supported by data-based decisions, standardized work, and operational excellence.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Basic life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Disability coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions, subject to eligibility requirements
• At least 15 vacation/PTO days for salaried employees
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid sick leave in accordance with local laws
• Relocation assistance offered within the country
• Salaried employees may be eligible for discretionary bonuses and profit-sharing; long-term incentives are available for Executive-level roles

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager