Plant Operations Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of manufacturing, the role of Plant Operations Managers is indispensable.

As industrial processes and systems advance, the need for adept leaders who can efficiently manage, improve, and ensure the safety of our plant operations grows exponentially.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Plant Operations Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager forming the image of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the intricacies of plant operations management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Plant Operations Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Plant Operations Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Plant Operations Managers oversee the daily operations of manufacturing plants, ensuring that all processes run reliably and efficiently.

They are primarily responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating production activities, and ensuring safety and efficiency in operations.

Plant Operations Managers have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Plan, organize, direct and run optimum day-to-day operations to exceed customers’ expectations
• Monitor operations and trigger corrective actions if necessary
• Share a trusting relationship with workgroup and recruit, manage and develop plant staff
• Collect and analyze data to find places of waste or overtime
• Commit to plant safety procedures
• Develop systems and processes that track and optimize productivity and standards, metrics and performance targets to ensure effective return on assets
• Address employees’ issues or grievances and administer collective bargaining agreements
• Stay up to date with latest production management best practices and concepts
• Implement cost effective systems of control over capital, operating expenditures, manpower, wages and salaries
• Control and minimize labor overtime, premium freight and repair expenses

 

Plant Operations Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Plant Operations Manager to oversee, manage, and coordinate the activities of our manufacturing plant.

This includes managing daily operations, tracking production, and implementing improvements to safety, productivity, and cost efficiency.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership skills, a commitment to quality, and a deep understanding of plant operations, manufacturing processes, and industry regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all operations within the plant
• Coordinate and direct production, processing, quality control, and maintenance
• Implement and monitor performance metrics for production levels, quality, and adherence to specifications
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to increase productivity and reduce costs
• Ensure plant operations comply with safety and environmental regulations
• Coordinate and direct the logistics of plant operations, including materials, personnel, and processes
• Train, supervise, and evaluate plant personnel
• Collaborate with other managers to optimize plant performance
• Identify areas of improvement and implement innovative solutions

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Plant Operations Manager or similar role in a manufacturing setting
• Strong knowledge of industry regulations and guidelines
• Experience with budget development and oversight
• Excellent understanding of quality standards and health & safety regulations
• Strong decision-making skills and a results-driven approach
• Excellent organizational and leadership abilities
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
• BSc/Ba in Business Management or relevant field, MSc/MA will be a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Plant Operations Manager
• Work Environment: This job operates in a plant setting. This role routinely requires exposure to factory environment conditions and necessary safety measures.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Plant Director or Operations Director.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications, in line with market and industry standards.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workforce. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Plant Operations Manager Do?

Plant Operations Managers are typically employed in manufacturing or production plants.

They are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the entire plant.

They often work closely with a team of supervisors and other managers to ensure that the plant’s operations align with the company’s goals and objectives.

This includes ensuring the production process is efficient, cost-effective, and meets quality standards.

They are also responsible for the maintenance of machinery and equipment used in the plant.

This involves scheduling regular inspections, coordinating repairs and upgrades, and ensuring that all machines are in good working condition.

Plant Operations Managers also play a key role in employee management.

They hire and train new employees, monitor employee performance, and ensure a safe and healthy work environment for all staff.

Part of their role is to implement and enforce safety regulations and procedures to prevent accidents and injuries.

They also manage the plant’s budget and resources, making sure to optimize costs and efficiencies.

In case of any issues or disruptions in the plant’s operations, the Plant Operations Manager is responsible for troubleshooting and resolving these issues promptly.

Furthermore, they are often involved in strategic planning and decision-making processes, contributing their knowledge and insights to improve the plant’s performance and productivity.

 

Plant Operations Manager Qualifications and Skills

A successful Plant Operations Manager should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job requirements, such as:

• Strong knowledge of production management to ensure operations are efficient, effective and in line with business strategies
• Understanding of quality standards and health & safety regulations to maintain a safe and productive work environment
• Experience in reporting on key production metrics to provide updates and insights about the plant operations
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with different teams, effectively conveying information and resolving issues
• Excellent organizational and leadership abilities to direct and motivate workforce to meet goals and objectives
• Problem-solving skills to identify operational bottlenecks and implement effective solutions
• Ability to manage budgets and resources, including raw materials, machinery, and human resources
• Technical skills necessary for understanding and utilizing plant machinery and other technologies
• Ability to withstand the physical demands of the job, such as standing for long periods and ability to work in industrial conditions

 

Plant Operations Manager Experience Requirements

The role of a Plant Operations Manager typically requires a minimum of 5 years’ experience within a manufacturing or industrial environment.

This could include roles like Production Supervisor, Operations Analyst, or Quality Assurance Manager where the candidate has developed a strong understanding of production processes, plant safety protocols, and lean manufacturing principles.

Candidates should ideally possess at least 2 to 3 years of experience in a leadership or managerial capacity, overseeing a team and dealing with the complexities of plant operations.

This could involve managing schedules, directing personnel, and ensuring that production goals and deadlines are met efficiently.

Candidates with more than 8 years’ experience in the field, including substantial leadership roles, are often ready to take on the high-level responsibilities of a Plant Operations Manager.

This could involve strategic planning, implementing operational improvements, and contributing significantly to the company’s productivity and growth strategies.

Additionally, experience with project management, budgeting and financial planning, and regulatory compliance is beneficial as these are often key aspects of the role.

A proven record of problem-solving, crisis management, and decision-making skills based on previous work experience is also highly valuable.

 

Plant Operations Manager Education and Training Requirements

A Plant Operations Manager typically holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, business administration, logistics, or related fields.

This role requires a broad understanding of various aspects like production, quality control, maintenance, logistics, and HR.

Thus, interdisciplinary training in these areas is highly beneficial.

In some cases, companies may require a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or related field for high-level management positions.

This advanced degree provides a comprehensive understanding of business operations, which can be crucial for effective management.

Moreover, experience in the field is highly valued.

A Plant Operations Manager is often expected to have several years of experience in manufacturing or industrial settings, highlighting their understanding of operational processes, safety standards, and personnel management.

While not typically required, certifications in areas such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Project Management can make a candidate more desirable.

Such certifications indicate their commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest industry standards.

Additionally, knowledge of specific industry regulations and safety standards is crucial, and therefore, training in occupational safety and health is highly beneficial.

 

Plant Operations Manager Salary Expectations

A Plant Operations Manager can expect an average salary of $83,332 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can vary significantly based on factors such as industry, years of experience, education, and the specific location of employment.

 

Plant Operations Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Plant Operations Manager need?

Plant Operations Managers should possess strong leadership and decision-making skills to guide teams and make critical operational decisions.

They should be adept at budgeting, planning, and resource allocation.

They should also have exceptional problem-solving skills to deal with the multitude of challenges that can occur in a plant environment.

Strong understanding of safety regulations, quality control, and industry-specific knowledge is also essential.

 

Do Plant Operations Managers need a degree?

While not always a strict requirement, many employers prefer Plant Operations Managers to have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, industrial technology, or a related field.

On-the-job experience in plant operations or a related area, such as production or manufacturing, is often more valued.

Some companies may also require certification in project management or lean manufacturing.

 

What should you look for in a Plant Operations Manager resume?

When reviewing a Plant Operations Manager’s resume, ensure that they have substantial experience in managing plant operations, knowledge of industry-specific machinery and systems, and evidence of leadership roles.

Look for degrees or certifications relevant to the industry.

Evidence of success in cost reduction, efficiency improvements, and safety enhancements are also valuable.

 

What qualities make a good Plant Operations Manager?

A good Plant Operations Manager is decisive, with the ability to make critical decisions under pressure.

They should have excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate their team towards achieving operational goals.

They should be analytical, capable of identifying areas of improvement and implementing strategies to increase efficiency and productivity.

They should also have a strong commitment to safety and quality control.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Plant Operations Manager?

Hiring a Plant Operations Manager can be challenging due to the extensive experience and specific skill set required for the role.

The candidate must have a thorough understanding of the industry and proven leadership skills.

To attract the best candidates, companies may need to offer competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and a positive work environment.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the nitty-gritty of being a Plant Operations Manager.

Surprised?

It’s not just about overseeing production lines.

It’s about orchestrating the seamless flow of operations, one process at a time.

With our ready-to-use Plant Operations Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed and ready to get started.

But why limit yourself?

Go a step further with our job description generator. It’s your pathway to creating precisely tailored job listings or finely tuning your resume to hit the mark.

Remember:

Every process is a cog in the larger machine of operations.

Let’s optimize that machine. Together.