Plant IT Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Our client is seeking an experienced IT Plant Manager to lead all technology operations within a manufacturing facility located in Auburn Hills, Michigan. This position serves as the primary technology leader at the plant level and is responsible for supporting infrastructure, manufacturing systems, end-user technology, and business applications that enable day-to-day operations.

As a member of the plant leadership team, this individual will partner closely with operational and functional leaders to drive continuous improvement initiatives, support business objectives, and foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and operational excellence.

The IT Plant Manager is responsible for overseeing all plant-based technology services, ensuring the reliability, security, and performance of IT systems that support manufacturing and business operations. This role provides leadership for local IT personnel, manages third-party vendors, oversees technology-related budgets, and aligns plant-level IT initiatives with broader organizational goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct all day-to-day IT operations within the manufacturing facility.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and performance management for plant IT support personnel.
• Manage technology-related expenditures and assist with annual operating and capital budget planning.
• Oversee hardware, software, telecommunications, and network support provided by internal teams and external vendors.
• Coordinate implementation, maintenance, and upgrades of plant technology infrastructure and business systems.
• Ensure end-user computing devices are deployed and maintained according to established corporate standards.
• Develop and execute plans for technology resources, infrastructure, and applications required to support plant operations.
• Partner with business and operational leaders to identify opportunities for process improvement and technology optimization.
• Support project planning and execution for plant and enterprise technology initiatives.
• Monitor system performance and ensure reliable operation of critical manufacturing and business applications.
• Facilitate installation and deployment activities for new hardware and software solutions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of six (6) years of experience in an IT leadership or IT management role.
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing technology strategies and operational plans.
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams across manufacturing, operations, and business functions.
• Proven budget management experience, including both capital and operating expenditures.
• Strong project management background with responsibility for planning, execution, and delivery.
• Experience leading, mentoring, and developing direct reports.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.

Technical Expertise

Candidates should possess strong working knowledge of:

• Microsoft operating systems and Microsoft Office applications
• SQL Server databases
• VMware virtualization technologies
• PC and workstation support
• RF technologies and devices
• Enterprise printing environments
• Server administration
• Network-attached and enterprise storage solutions
• Networking concepts and infrastructure
• Backup and recovery technologies
• Manufacturing and enterprise IT support tools

Physical Requirements

• Ability to occasionally lift and move equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience supporting manufacturing environments and familiarity with:

• Automotive industry technology systems
• ERP platforms, including Plex
• Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
• Plant floor applications, controls, and network infrastructure