Plant Manager

Plant ManagerFounded in 1999, Specialty Herd Solutions is a fast-growing leader in the dairy industry, delivering comprehensive animal care through premium products, innovative equipment, and reliable bulk delivery. We are looking for a customer-focused professional who takes ownership, leads with integrity, and collaborates selflessly to support our clients' success.The RoleAs a Plant Manager, you will be responsible for the overall leadership, performance, and continuous improvement of plant operations, including production, safety, quality, maintenance, transportation/logistics, and inventory management. This "hands-on" role ensures efficient, compliant, and cost-effective operations while being a part of and developing a high-performing workforce and driving a strong culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence.Your ImpactOperations & ProductionParticipate in and lead daily plant operations to meet production, quality, safety, and cost objectivesOptimize batch processes, reduce waste, and troubleshoot off-spec productsDevelop, implement, and standardize SOPs and best practices across productionMonitor and achieve production KPIs and drive continuous improvement initiativesSafety & ComplianceEnsure compliance with OSHA, EPA, DOT and applicable regulatory requirementsLead safety programs including PPE, LOTO, confined space, hazard communication, and spill responsePromote a strong safety culture and ensure corrective actions are implementedSupport and lead audits, inspections, PHAs, and MOCsQuality & Chemical ManagementOversee product quality, testing standards, and documentation accuracyLead root cause investigations and implement corrective actions for quality issuesEnsure proper chemical handling, storage, compatibility, and disposal practicesMaintenance & ReliabilityOversee equipment reliability programs, including preventive maintenance and repairsPartner with maintenance teams to improve uptime and reduce failures (MTBF)Ensure proper inspection processes and equipment standards are maintainedLogistics & InventoryManage material flow, inventory accuracy, and warehouse operationsDesign and implement efficient inventory strategies (FIFO/FEFO)Ensure accurate shipping, receiving, and documentation processesEnsure compliance with DOT regulations including driver qualifications, hours of service (HOS), vehicle inspections, and recordkeepingLeadership & Team DevelopmentHire, coach, and develop plant personnelEstablish performance expectations and accountability measuresBuild bench strength and succession planning for key rolesFoster collaboration across departments (EHS, QA, Maintenance, Supply Chain)Continuous ImprovementIdentify operational inefficiencies and implement process improvementsLead cost-saving initiatives and productivity enhancementsUtilize data to drive decision-making and operational strategySupervisory ResponsibilitiesDirectly supervises production, operations, logistics and/or support staffResponsible for performance management, training, and disciplinary actionsLeads cross-functional coordination across plant functionsRequirementsWhat You BringRequired QualificationsHigh school diploma or GED requiredBachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, or related field preferredMinimum 7 years of manufacturing or plant operations experienceMinimum 3 years of leadership or supervisory experienceStrong knowledge of industrial safety and regulatory requirements (OSHA, EPA, DOT, etc.)Demonstrated experience leading teams and improving operational performancePreferred QualificationsExperience in chemical manufacturing or regulated environmentsKnowledge of DOT regulations, fleet management, and transportation complianceLean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement certificationExperience with ERP systems and production planning toolsStrong mechanical and process troubleshooting backgroundKnowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skillsWorking knowledge of DOT regulations, driver safety requirements, and fleet complianceExcellent problem-solving and decision-making capabilityAbility to analyze data and drive performance improvementsStrong communication and cross-functional collaboration skillsDeep understanding of plant operations, safety systems, and quality processesPhysical RequirementsAbility to walk and stand on the production floor for extended periodsAbility to occasionally lift up to 50 lbsAbility to wear required PPE when in operational areasWork EnvironmentCombination of office and industrial plant environmentExposure to noise, chemicals, moving equipment, and varying temperaturesMay require extended hours, weekends, or on-call availabilityWhy Join Us?Impact: Play a key role in delivering innovative hoof-care and dairy-equipment solutions that directly improve herd health and producer profitability.Growth: Grow your career with an industry leader that truly values your expertise.Rewards: Enjoy a competitive compensation and benefits package within a supportive, team-oriented culture.What We OfferReady to Make an Impact? Apply today to help dairy producers succeed while advancing your own career with a company that values innovation, collaboration, and growth. We offer a competitive base compensation range of $90,000 - $100,000 annually with a 10% target bonus. Compensation will be determined by the experience, knowledge, and abilities of the applicant. We also offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision and life insurance plans, vacation and sick time, and a generous 401k employer contribution.Who We AreSpecialty Herd Solutions was founded after recognizing the challenges dairy farmers faced using bagged copper sulfate for hoof care, leading to the development of an easier-to-use, more effective liquid solution. This innovation became the foundation of the company, followed shortly by the installation of its first automated footbath system. Today, Specialty Herd Solutions supports over 30% of U.S. dairy cows as a leading provider of automated hoof care technology. Driven by a mission to modernize animal care, the company delivers sustainable, customized solutions through strong partnerships—offering straightforward, no-hassle service with a focus on improving outcomes for cattle, farm employees, and dairy operations.Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) StatementWe are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local laws.