Plant Manager

Messer Cutting Systems, Inc.•Menomonee Falls, WI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Plant Manager is responsible for leading and optimizing all production operations at Messer Cutting Systems, Inc., including Mechanical Assembly, Electrical Assembly, and the Machine Shop. This role focuses exclusively on production—no longer overseeing Purchasing, Parts, or Global Supply Chain. The Plant Manager ensures safe, efficient, high-quality manufacturing operations while driving continuous improvement, modern production practices, and strong leadership development among supervisors and production staff. This position plays a critical role in transforming the production environment by introducing best-in-class manufacturing methodologies, improving workflow, and elevating operational excellence across all production areas.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field required.
7–10 years of experience managing production or manufacturing operations, preferably in a complex industrial equipment environment.
Demonstrated success leading multi-department production teams.
ISO quality system experience required.
Experience with machining, welding, CNC programming, industrial equipment manufacturing, or complex assembly strongly preferred.
Experience with ERP/MRP systems (Infor LN preferred).
Strong leadership and team development ability.
Highly skilled in workflow optimization, process mapping, and production planning.
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
Proficiency in Lean tools, root cause analysis, Kaizen, and other improvement methodologies.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, BOMs, and manufacturing documentation.
Proficiency in ERP systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and production analytics tools.
Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Lean, Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt), or similar continuous improvement certification strongly preferred.
Experience with machining, welding, CNC programming, industrial equipment manufacturing, or complex assembly strongly preferred.
Experience with ERP/MRP systems (Infor LN preferred).

Responsibilities

Leads day-to-day operations in the Mechanical Assembly, Electrical Assembly, and Machine Shop areas to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production.
Implements modern production management practices, including Lean, Six Sigma, ISO-based quality standards, and other continuous improvement tools.
Analyzes production workflows, identifies bottlenecks, and drives improvements to reduce turnaround times and increase throughput.
Develops production supervisors through coaching, structured feedback, and leadership training to improve departmental performance.
Collaborates with Engineering, Quality, and Service teams to support manufacturability, solve production challenges, and improve overall output.
Establishes and tracks production KPIs related to safety, quality, on-time delivery, productivity, and cost.
Leads short- and long-range planning for staffing, capacity, processes, and production technologies.
Champions a strong safety culture, ensuring compliance with OSHA, company standards, and industry best practices.
Drives the adoption of modern manufacturing technologies and data-driven optimization tools.
Implements structured Shop Floor Management (SFM), including visual management, daily accountability processes, and standardized work.
Ensures production operations meet ISO and other relevant industry standards.
Acts as a key partner in capital planning for production improvements, equipment upgrades, and facility needs.
Forms and leads company wide safety committee, including for customer service – works with HR and Service as needed.