Plant Manager | Rockford, MI

Salary Range: $137,000 - $188,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled professional with a passion for leading manufacturing operations and driving plant performance? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We are collaborating with companies in Rockford seeking experienced Plant Managers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across Rockford seeking Plant Managers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily plant operations for optimal efficiency and productivity.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve production targets and business objectives.
• Manage and mentor a diverse team, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety regulations, quality standards, and environmental compliance.
• Optimize resource allocation, including labor, materials, and equipment, to minimize costs and maximize output.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through Lean manufacturing principles and other methodologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including sales, engineering, and supply chain, to meet customer demands.
• Manage operational budgets, control expenses, and identify opportunities for cost reduction.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field
• 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations
• Proven track record in lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and operational excellence
• Strong understanding of safety regulations and quality management systems (e.g., ISO)
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, drive cost reduction, and optimize production efficiency
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills

Bonus Qualifications

• Six Sigma Black Belt certification
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
• Proficiency in using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software for production planning and inventory management
• Master's degree in a related field (e.g., Engineering Management, Business Administration)

Job Titles That Should Apply

Plant Manager, Operations Manager, Production Manager, Manufacturing Manager, Factory Manager, General Manager (Manufacturing), Plant Operations Director, Production Director, Manufacturing Director

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.