Sr. Director of Plant Operations - Atlanta Georgia

Neptune Technology Group•Duluth, GA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Neptune Technology Group, a leader in smart water metering and advanced utility infrastructure solutions, is seeking an accomplished Senior Director of Plant Operations with extensive experience leading brownfield/greenfield manufacturing start-ups from concept through full-scale production. This role will be instrumental in launching Neptune’s next-generation manufacturing facility by overseeing site selection, facility design, construction, operational readiness, and the production ramp-up. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in electro-mechanical manufacturing—preferably within metering, industrial instrumentation, or IoT-enabled devices—as well as expertise in automation and digital transformation. This position offers the opportunity to build and lead a world-class, digitally enabled manufacturing facility from the ground up, directly influencing Neptune’s operational capabilities, culture, and long-term performance. Neptune is committed to advancing smart water technology and sustainable manufacturing, helping utilities measure, manage, and conserve water through innovation, intelligence, and reliability.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Operations Management, or related discipline (MBA preferred).
15+ years of progressive operations leadership experience in manufacturing environments, ideally with electro-mechanical or industrial products.
Proven track record leading greenfield or brownfield facility start-ups through site selection, construction, and ramp-up.
Experience in meter manufacturing, industrial instrumentation, or connected device production
Experience with automation, robotics, and digital transformation
Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and operational excellence principles.
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
Ability to excel in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment with high visibility and impact.

Responsibilities

Lead all aspects of facility development, from site evaluation through design, construction, equipment commissioning, and production launch.
Partner with executive leadership to define project strategy, scope, budget, and schedule, ensuring alignment with Neptune’s long-term growth objectives.
Collaborate with architects, contractors, equipment vendors, and local authorities to ensure successful facility delivery.
Drive the integration of automation, robotics, and smart manufacturing technologies into facility design and operations.
Build and lead a high-performance manufacturing organization, including production, manufacturing engineering, quality, maintenance, logistics, and inventory management functions.
Implement Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement, efficiency, and quality.
Develop operational KPIs and reporting systems to ensure accountability and transparency.
Manage operational budgets, capital projects, and resource planning to meet performance and cost objectives.
Partner with HR, Engineering, Product Development, Supply Chain, IT, and Finance to ensure manufacturing readiness, scalability, and cost optimization.
Work closely with Human Resources to recruit, train, and retain top operations and production talent.
Collaborate with HSE to maintain a safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible workplace.
Lead the transition from pilot production to full manufacturing operations, ensuring process validation and production efficiency.
Champion automation, Industry 4.0, and digital transformation initiatives to modernize Neptune’s manufacturing systems.
Implement data-driven manufacturing tools, MES systems, and real-time performance dashboards.
Foster a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.