Role Overview for Plant Manager, Aerospace & Defense
JRG Partners is proud to have been retained by a leading Aerospace & Defense company in its search for a results-driven Plant Manager. Based in Pittsburgh, PA, this senior executive role owns manufacturing performance across the operation.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the Plant Manager will set and execute the manufacturing strategy, driving safety, quality, delivery, and cost across the operation.
Aerospace and defense is a highly regulated, program-driven industry where quality and compliance are paramount. The ideal candidate is a proven operations leader who blends lean expertise and technical depth with strong plant-floor leadership.
This is a career-defining opportunity to lead at the highest level, shaping strategy, culture, and performance and creating durable value for the organization and its stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities of Plant Manager, Aerospace & Defense
The role will own manufacturing performance, with responsibilities including but not limited to:
Manufacturing Strategy
Develop and execute a manufacturing strategy that aligns capacity and cost with demand.
Operational Excellence
Drive safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance with rigorous metrics.
Safety & EHS
Champion a zero-incident safety culture and full compliance with EHS regulations.
Quality Management
Ensure robust quality systems and continuous reduction of defects and waste.
Lean & Continuous Improvement
Deploy Lean and Six Sigma to improve productivity, yield, and flow.
Capacity & Capital Projects
Lead capacity planning, capital investment, and automation to scale operations.
Cost & Budget Management
Own the manufacturing cost structure and budget, delivering productivity improvement.
Reliability & Maintenance
Drive equipment reliability and maintenance strategy to minimize downtime.
Supply Chain Coordination
Align production, planning, and materials with demand.
Workforce & Labor
Build a capable, engaged workforce and manage staffing, training, and labor.
Performance Metrics
Establish and monitor KPIs such as OEE, throughput, yield, and on-time delivery.
Team Leadership
Lead, mentor, and develop production leadership and a culture of accountability.
Requirements for the Plant Manager, Aerospace & Defense
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, or a related field is required; an advanced degree or MBA is a plus.
Experience
Progressive manufacturing and operations experience, including leadership within a comparable industry.
Operational Expertise
Deep expertise in manufacturing operations, safety, quality, and cost management.
Continuous Improvement
Proven mastery of Lean and Six Sigma and a track record of measurable improvement.
Capital & Automation
Experience leading capital projects, automation, and facility modernization.
Leadership
Exceptional ability to build, lead, and inspire plant and operations teams.
Analytical Skills
Strong analytical skills and fluency in manufacturing metrics and financials.
Communication
Excellent communication and influence skills from the shop floor to leadership.
Results Orientation
A hands-on, results-driven leadership style with a bias for action.
Citizenship
Due to the nature of the work, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency may be required.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain exceptional leadership talent, including:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A comprehensive executive compensation package, including a highly competitive base salary, a significant annual incentive, and substantial long-term equity or incentive participation.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of medical, dental, and vision plans with multiple options, plus Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) choices to fit your family’s needs.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you build long-term financial security.
Paid Time Off
A generous paid time off program, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays, supporting a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
Strong support for your continued growth, including funding for certifications, executive education, and attendance at leading industry conferences.
Executive Leadership Platform
A senior leadership seat with the mandate to shape strategy, culture, and performance.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family, where applicable.
Collaborative Culture
A positive, inclusive, and high-integrity culture where your leadership is valued and your impact is recognized.
How to Apply
This is a retained search conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. Qualified candidates are invited to apply in the strictest confidence.
To express your interest, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your leadership philosophy and most significant achievements.
This is a retained search conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. For more on our expertise in this area, please visit our Manufacturing executive search practice page. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. JRG Partners is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at every level of the organizations we serve.
