Role Overview for Plant Manager (Machinery) – Peoria, IL
JRG Partners, a premier HR recruiting firm specializing in connecting top talent with industry-leading companies, is actively seeking a highly skilled and dynamic Plant Manager (Machinery) for a pivotal role in Peoria, Illinois. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned manufacturing leader to take the helm of a sophisticated machinery production facility, driving operational excellence, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality.
As the Plant Manager, you will be the strategic and operational leader for all aspects of the manufacturing site. Your vision and leadership will be critical in optimizing production processes, enhancing product quality, managing financial performance, and developing a high-performing team. This role demands a hands-on leader with a strong technical background in machinery manufacturing, a proven track record in P&L management, and an unwavering commitment to safety and efficiency. You will be instrumental in translating strategic objectives into actionable plans, ensuring the plant operates at peak performance to meet market demands and exceed customer expectations.
Peoria, IL, offers a vibrant community and a strong industrial heritage, making it an ideal location for a professional looking to make a significant impact within the manufacturing sector. This role is not just about managing operations; it’s about shaping the future of a key manufacturing asset, contributing directly to the company’s growth and success. If you are a results-oriented leader with a passion for machinery, operational excellence, and team development, we invite you to explore this challenging and rewarding opportunity.
Working closely with senior leadership, you will have the autonomy to implement innovative solutions and continuous improvement methodologies that will elevate the plant’s performance. The successful candidate will possess an innate ability to inspire, motivate, and empower employees at all levels, fostering an environment where talent thrives and operational goals are consistently met or surpassed. This is more than a job; it’s a chance to leave a lasting legacy on a critical manufacturing operation.
Key Responsibilities of Plant Manager (Machinery) – Peoria, IL
Operational Leadership & Management
Oversee all daily plant operations, including production, quality control, maintenance, engineering, and logistics, to ensure the efficient and cost-effective manufacturing of machinery. Manage the plant’s P&L, develop and manage budgets, and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement and achieve financial targets. Develop and implement strategic plans that align with corporate objectives, focusing on capacity planning, resource allocation, and operational optimization.
Safety, Health & Environmental Compliance
Champion a robust safety culture, ensuring strict adherence to all local, state, and federal safety regulations, including OSHA standards. Implement and maintain comprehensive environmental health and safety programs, conducting regular audits and training to minimize risks and promote a safe working environment for all employees. Drive proactive initiatives to reduce workplace incidents and cultivate a safety-first mindset.
Quality Assurance & Control
Establish and enforce rigorous quality control standards and procedures throughout the manufacturing process to ensure all machinery products meet or exceed customer specifications and industry benchmarks. Lead efforts in root cause analysis for quality issues, implementing corrective and preventive actions to enhance product reliability and customer satisfaction. Oversee the implementation and maintenance of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001).
Production Planning & Efficiency
Develop, implement, and monitor production schedules to optimize workflow, maximize throughput, and ensure on-time delivery. Utilize advanced manufacturing techniques and methodologies, such as Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma, to identify and eliminate waste, reduce costs, and improve overall operational efficiency. Continuously analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and implement process improvements.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, train, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of production managers, supervisors, and plant personnel. Foster a positive and engaging work environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. Conduct performance reviews, set clear objectives, and provide constructive feedback to support professional growth and succession planning within the plant.
Maintenance & Reliability Engineering
Oversee the maintenance department to ensure the optimal functioning and longevity of all plant machinery, equipment, and infrastructure. Implement preventive and predictive maintenance programs to minimize downtime, reduce repair costs, and extend asset life. Drive initiatives for equipment upgrades and modernization to improve efficiency and capability.
Supply Chain & Inventory Management
Collaborate with procurement and supply chain teams to ensure the timely availability of raw materials, components, and MRO supplies. Optimize inventory levels to minimize holding costs while ensuring uninterrupted production flow. Implement strategies to improve vendor relationships and supply chain resilience.
Capital Project Management
Identify needs, propose, and manage capital expenditure projects aimed at improving plant infrastructure, expanding capacity, or introducing new technologies. Oversee project timelines, budgets, and execution to ensure successful completion and realization of intended benefits.
Continuous Improvement & Innovation
Lead and champion a culture of continuous improvement across all plant functions. Encourage and facilitate employee involvement in Kaizen events, problem-solving initiatives, and the adoption of new technologies and best practices to drive operational excellence and innovation.
Stakeholder Communication
Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including corporate leadership, sales, customers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies. Provide regular reports on plant performance, challenges, and strategic initiatives.
Requirements for the Plant Manager (Machinery) – Peoria, IL
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or related field) is required. A Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) or a related technical field is highly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 5-7 years specifically in a Plant Manager or equivalent senior leadership role within the heavy machinery, industrial equipment, or complex assembly manufacturing sector. Demonstrated experience managing significant P&L responsibilities for a manufacturing facility.
Technical Acumen
Deep understanding of machinery manufacturing processes, including fabrication, machining, assembly, welding, and testing. Proficiency in modern manufacturing methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt certification highly desirable), Kaizen, and 5S.
Leadership & Management Skills
Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop large diverse teams. Exceptional interpersonal, communication (written and verbal), and presentation skills. Strong change management capabilities with a track record of successfully implementing new processes and technologies.
Financial & Business Acumen
Solid understanding of financial management principles, budget development, cost control, and strategic planning. Ability to analyze complex data, make informed decisions, and drive financial results. Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Infor) is essential.
Safety & Quality Focus
Comprehensive knowledge of OSHA regulations and best practices in industrial safety. Experience with implementing and maintaining robust quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001). A relentless commitment to fostering a safe and quality-driven environment.
Problem-Solving & Decision Making
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose complex operational issues and implement effective solutions quickly. Decisive leadership with the capacity to make critical decisions under pressure.
Location
Must be willing to live and work on-site in Peoria, IL. Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client values its employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and financial future. As the Plant Manager, you will enjoy:
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary commensurate with experience and a performance-based bonus structure that rewards success.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, including prescription drug coverage.
Financial Security
A strong 401(k) retirement plan with generous company matching contributions to help you build your financial future.
Paid Time Off
Ample paid vacation, sick leave, and company-paid holidays to ensure work-life balance.
Professional Development
Opportunities for ongoing training, executive education, and career advancement within a growing organization. We invest in our leaders.
Relocation Assistance
For qualified candidates, a comprehensive relocation package is available to facilitate a smooth transition to Peoria, IL.
Impactful Work Environment
The chance to lead a critical operation and make a tangible impact on the company’s success and the local community.
Life & Disability Insurance
Company-paid life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.
Employee Assistance Programs
Resources to support personal and professional challenges.
How to Apply
If you are a visionary leader ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role as Plant Manager (Machinery) in Peoria, IL, JRG Partners invites you to apply. This is an unparalleled opportunity to leverage your expertise and drive significant operational improvements within a leading manufacturing organization.
To express your interest and be considered for this exceptional position, please submit your detailed resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and career aspirations through our dedicated portal. Please highlight your specific achievements in plant management, operational excellence, and team leadership within the machinery manufacturing sector.
For more information on how JRG Partners helps top talent connect with leading companies in the manufacturing and industrial sectors, please visit JRG Partners’ Manufacturing & Industrial Recruitment Practice Area. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially partnering with you on your next career move.
