Truck Body & Heavy Equipment Manufacturing Summary:
The Plant Manager will oversee all aspects of manufacturing operations for customizable vacuum and hydro-excavation trucks, with a strong emphasis on truck body fabrication and heavy equipment assembly. This role is responsible for directing production activities, ensuring quality and efficiency, and driving operational excellence through Lean principles. The Plant Manager will also oversee capital equipment planning, facility maintenance, workforce utilization, and continuous improvement initiatives to ensure safety, cost control, and productivity in a complex, high-volume manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Direct and manage plant operations, including production, assembly, fabrication, and maintenance, with a focus on truck body and heavy equipment manufacturing processes. Coordinate plant activities by working closely with engineering, supply chain, and departmental managers to meet manufacturing objectives on time and within budget. Develop and manage production schedules, resource allocation, operating expenditures, manpower planning, wages, and salaries. Oversee the purchase, layout, and maintenance of capital equipment to optimize manufacturing capabilities and ensure reliability of operations. Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to improve workflow, reduce waste, and enhance quality across all production lines. Monitor and analyze plant performance against established safety, quality, and productivity standards, identifying opportunities for improvement. Control and minimize labor overtime, repair expenses, and material waste through proactive planning and process optimization. Lead and develop production supervisors and manufacturing teams through effective coaching, training, and performance management. Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement at all levels of the plant. Ensure compliance with industry regulations, environmental standards, and company policies. Promote shop floor organization and plant cleanliness standards to support efficient and safe operations.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree preferred (Engineering, Manufacturing Management, or related field). 8-10 years of progressive leadership experience in truck body manufacturing, heavy equipment assembly, or a closely related industry. Proven track record of managing multi-shift, large-scale manufacturing operations. Strong knowledge of fabrication, welding, assembly, and paint processes related to truck bodies or heavy machinery. Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma certifications required. Strong financial acumen with experience managing P&L, budgets, and capital projects. Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills with the ability to influence and motivate cross-functional teams. Strategic thinker with the ability to align plant operations with overall business goals.
Preferred Experience:
Background in commercial truck body manufacturing, vocational vehicles, or construction/heavy equipment manufacturing. Experience leading product launches or custom manufacturing processes. Demonstrated success in scaling operations, improving safety metrics, and driving measurable efficiency gains. This is a drug free workplace. All applicants must be willing to submit to a drug test and background check.
