Plant Manager – Steel & Aluminum Manufacturing
📍 Kansas City, MO
🕒 Full‑Time | On‑Site
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Plant Manager to lead a newly expanding steel and aluminum processing facility in the Kansas City area. This role is a unique opportunity to join ahead of full production, playing a key role in overseeing construction, building out operations, and hiring and developing the plant team.
The Plant Manager will have full accountability for plant operations, safety, quality, production, maintenance, and people leadership, while helping transition the facility from warehousing and distribution into full manufacturing operations.
This is a hands‑on leadership role ideal for someone with a steel or aluminum processing background and a proven record of building strong teams and driving operational results.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and oversee day‑to‑day plant operations, including production, shipping/receiving, and maintenance
Partner in facility startup activities, including equipment installation, process setup, and operational readiness
Drive production output while maintaining strict standards for quality, safety, and on‑time delivery
Maximize asset utilization and production flexibility while controlling operating costs
Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with business objectives
Monitor performance metrics and implement corrective actions as needed
Recruit, hire, train, and develop plant leadership and production teams
Build a high‑performance, accountable plant culture focused on collaboration and continuous improvement
Identify waste, overtime, and inefficiencies through data analysis and root‑cause problem solving
Lead and enforce all plant safety programs, holding teams accountable to standards
Ensure compliance with OSHA, ISO, and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations
Conduct regular inspections of plant equipment, production areas, yards, and grounds
Partner closely with internal teams including Quality, Sales, Procurement, Finance, and Human Resources
Act with a customer‑first mindset, ensuring strong internal and external relationships
What We’re Looking For
Proven experience as a Plant Manager or senior manufacturing leader
Strong background in steel and/or aluminum processing environments
Demonstrated ability to lead through plant startup, expansion, or transformation
Solid understanding of plant operations, maintenance, safety, quality, inventory, and production flow
Strong people leadership skills, including hiring, performance management, and employee relations
Sound business and financial judgment, including cost control and budget oversight
Ability to lead by example and create a culture of accountability and engagement
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Business Management, or equivalent experience
8+ years of manufacturing experience (steel or aluminum preferred)
8+ years of progressive leadership experience
Experience working in ISO‑certified manufacturing environments
Strong working knowledge of OSHA safety requirements
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
Plant Manager certification a plus
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
This role is based in a manufacturing plant environment with significant time spent on the plant floor.
Flexibility with work hours is required to support startup activities and operational needs. The role involves standing, walking, climbing, bending, and occasional lifting.
Equal Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.