Job Description

Job: Full Time (ONSITE)

Location: Greater Philadelphia

Our client is in the process of launching a new, state-of-the-art facility manufacturing metal containers, and they are looking for a Plant Manager to help launch operations and scale the plant. This is a rare opportunity where you will be a part of an organization from the start.You will have the opportunity to build the entire floor operations from day one.

What You'll Build

• A safe, efficient, and high-performing manufacturing operation from first machine install to full production
• Production workflows, staffing models, and operating standards that scale
• A strong safety, quality, and continuous-improvement culture from day one

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with leadership, engineering, and vendors to support equipment installation, commissioning, and production ramp-up.
• Own full plant operations post-commissioning, driving production planning, efficiency, quality, cost control, equipment reliability, and supply chain coordination.
• Hire, train, and develop the first generation of supervisors and floor technicians, building a high-accountability, team-first culture.
• Design and implement standard work, production flow, staffing plans, and shift structures.
• Own throughput, yield, labor efficiency, and on-time delivery as production scales.
• Establish tooling, mold management, and preventive maintenance programs early to ensure long-term reliability.
• Partner closely with corporate leadership and maintain strong relationships with local regulatory agencies, suppliers, and external stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and compliance.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing principles as foundational behaviors.
• Lead problem-solving during startup challenges by diagnosing bottlenecks, equipment issues, and process gaps quickly.
• Build production scheduling and labor planning models aligned to customer demand.
• Establish and enforce plant-wide compliance systems aligned with U.S. federal, state, and local regulations covering safety, environmental, labor, and operational standards.
• Be a visible, hands-on leader on the floor during critical startup phases.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelors Degree or equivalent experience required. Trade certifications in lieu of eductaion will be considered.

• 7+ years of manufacturing experience with 2 3+ years managing production teams or floor technicians ideally in metal forming aluminum, or food-grade production (Preferred),
• Experience launching, expanding, or stabilizing new production lines or facilities preferred but not mandatory.
• Deep understanding of precision molds, machining, tooling, and equipment performance.
• Strong Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement mindset.
• Comfortable working in ambiguity and excited by building systems, not inheriting them.
• A hands-on leader who enjoys being on the floor, solving problems, and leading by example.
• This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus of up to 20%, tied to individual and company performance.

Working Environment / Physical Demands: Work is performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and varying temperatures. The role requires standing for long periods, manual material handling, and the ability to lift heavy materials. As this is a startup manufacturing environment, job duties, work conditions, and physical requirements may evolve as the facility becomes fully operational and processes are standardized.

Benefits : As a greenfield organization, we offer competitive pay, foundational benefits, and the unique opportunity to build and shape processes, culture, and growth alongside the leadership team.

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