Plant Manager

Description:

Virnig Manufacturing operates multiple plant locations, each led by a Plant Manager responsible for driving performance, developing people, and ensuring operational excellence. The Plant Manager for our Fort Madison, IA facility will play a critical role in launching a new manufacturing operation. This position is responsible for building the plant from the ground up, including establishing processes, hiring and developing the team, and creating a culture of accountability and execution. This is a hands-on leadership role that requires the ability to operate in a fast-paced, evolving environment while setting structure, driving results, and leading through change.

Compensation & Benefits Salary:

$90,000 - $125,000 annually

Benefits Package Includes:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with employer match Generous PTO including vacation and paid holidays Short- and long-term disability coverage Life insurance Employee assistance program Opportunities for growth and development

Requirements:

Startup & Build Responsibilities Lead plant startup activities including layout readiness, workflow development, and operational setup Partner with HR and leadership to execute hiring plans and workforce ramp-up Establish standard work, processes, and performance expectations from day one Build and develop the initial leadership team and frontline structure Identify gaps quickly and implement solutions to support production readiness Operational Leadership Provide leadership and direction to all plant employees, including interviewing, hiring, onboarding, assigning work, evaluating performance, rewarding, and addressing employee concerns Drive production performance to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets Oversee daily operations including scheduling, workflow optimization, and on-time shipping Monitor plant performance using key metrics; analyze data to identify trends and drive continuous improvement Make timely decisions in a fast-moving environment, especially during early-stage operations Culture & Team Development Establish and reinforce a culture of accountability, ownership, and continuous improvement Provide ongoing coaching, training, and mentorship to develop team members and build future leaders Set clear expectations and hold leaders and employees accountable for performance and behavior Compliance & Collaboration Ensure compliance with safety regulations, company policies, and quality standards Collaborate with other facilities and departments to align processes, support production planning, and drive company-wide goals Participate in strategic planning, capital spending, and continuous improvement initiatives Meet monthly budgeting and financial performance expectations Perform other duties as assigned Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, or related field preferred; high school diploma required 5+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing operations Experience in plant startup, expansion, or significant operational change preferred Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, preferably in fabrication, machining, or heavy equipment

Skills:

Leadership & Team Management:

Strong leadership, interpersonal, and team management skills with the ability to guide, motivate, and support a high-performing workforce.

Data-Driven Decision Making:

Ability to analyze data and use insights to inform decisions, solve problems, and drive continuous improvement. Communicating with

Persons Outside Organization:

Representing the organization to customers and other external sources.

Active Listening:

Demonstrates strong listening skills by attentively engaging with others. Communicating with

Team Members, and Co-Workers:

Providing information to team members and co-workers by telephone, in written form, email, virtually, or in person.

Making Decisions and Solving Problems:

Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Gathering Information:

Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work:

Ability to multitask and work on multiple projects simultaneously while keeping deadlines at the forefront.

Physical Requirements:

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Ability to move about between offices and attend meetings which may include ascending or descending stairs. Occasional lifting and carrying of materials or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Hearing and speech ability to communicate effectively in person and over the phone using the English language. Ability to use hands and fingers to operate standard office equipment such as a computer keyboard, mouse, telephone, copier, and printer with precision and efficiency.