Plant Manager

Overview Direct message the job poster from Seaga Since 1997, Automated Merchandising Systems (AMS) has been a driving force in the vending industry, transforming the market with game-changing technology and building a reputation for innovation, reliability, and dependability. In 2022, AMS joined forces with Seaga Manufacturing , creating a powerful partnership that blends a strong legacy with bold innovation. We are seeking a results-driven Plant Manager to lead operations at our vending machine manufacturing facility in Kearneysville, WV . This role is pivotal in driving operational excellence — ensuring efficient production workflows, fostering a safe and compliant workplace, and delivering high-quality products on time and within budget. The Plant Manager will oversee strategic planning and hands-on leadership across production, quality, maintenance, inventory, and logistics , while building and developing a high-performance team . If you’re a proven leader with a strong operational mindset, excellent problem-solving skills, and a passion for developing people, we want to hear from you. Apply to join us in shaping the future of the vending industry! Key Responsibilities: Production & Operations Management: Oversee all daily plant activities, including production planning, scheduling, mechanical and electromechanical assembly, welding, sheet metal fabrication, testing, and packaging, and shipping. Drive operational efficiency and maximize machine utilization, labor productivity, and material usage. Coordinate with planning and materials management to ensure proper inventory levels and timely fulfillment of customer orders. Ensure production targets, delivery schedules, and product quality standards are consistently met or exceeded. Lead production team and maintain open communication with supervisors, team leads, and operators across all shifts. Quality Assurance & Compliance: Ensure adherence to product quality standards and customer specifications. Support implementation and maintenance of quality systems (e.g., ISO 9001). Work with the Quality team to investigate root causes of quality issues and implement corrective actions. Conduct routine audits and ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and OSHA/EPA regulations. Leadership & Team Development: Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and employee engagement. Directly supervise and develop a team of production supervisors, technicians, and hourly staff. Identify skills gaps and implement cross-training programs to build bench strength and operational flexibility. Provide regular coaching, feedback, and growth opportunities for plant staff at all levels. Champion continuous improvement using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and 5S methodologies. Analyze production data and KPIs to identify bottlenecks, reduce waste, and optimize process flow. Lead Kaizen events and improvement projects to enhance safety, quality, and throughput. Work with engineering to streamline work instructions, layouts, tooling, and processes. Develop and manage plant operating budgets, including labor, equipment, materials, and maintenance expenses. Forecast staffing needs, overtime requirements, and resource allocation based on order volume. Evaluate capital equipment needs and support justification and implementation of new investments. Monitor energy usage, scrap rates, and other cost drivers to deliver financial performance goals. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate closely with Engineering on manufacturability, new product introduction (NPI), and design for assembly. Partner with Supply Chain and Logistics to manage vendor relationships, raw material deliveries, and inventory control. Support the Sales and Customer Service teams with updates on lead times, production schedules, and custom order requirements. Work with IT and HR on system enhancements, employee engagement initiatives, and compliance. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, Business Administration, or a related field. Equivalent experience may be considered. Minimum 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing or industrial production environment. Demonstrated expertise in overseeing complex assembly operations, preferably involving metal fabrication, wiring, and mechanical components. Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, process flow, equipment layout, and facility optimization. Hands-on experience with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., Great Plains, SAP, Oracle, or similar). Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills; able to interpret data, spot trends, and implement effective solutions. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and production reporting tools. Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to motivate teams and manage change. Strong organizational and project management capabilities. Preferred Qualifications: Experience in vending machine, appliance, or durable goods manufacturing. Working knowledge of ISO 9001 or other formal quality systems. Certification in Lean and/or Six Sigma (Green Belt or higher). Familiarity with welding, HVAC systems, refrigeration, or vending-related mechanical systems is a plus. Working Conditions: On-site role based in a manufacturing facility. Requires regular walking, standing, and exposure to production floor environments (noise, temperature changes, machinery). Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally. Occasional travel may be required for vendor visits, offsite meetings, or cross-plant collaboration. Seniority level: Mid-Senior level Employment type: Full-time Job function: Production, Management, and Strategy/Planning Industries: Food and Beverage Services #J-18808-Ljbffr