ABOUT THE COMPANY: JOST International began as a small business in the early 1980s, where we submitted the patent application for the very first steel cast fifth wheel coupling. Since our start in Grand Haven, Michigan, JOST International has grown to become a world market leader for fifth wheels and landing gear and an international supplier for the commercial trucking industry. Though we’ve grown through the years, JOST International is proud to retain the same values and principles that launched our business decades ago — a dedication to safety and continuous innovation, and above all, a close relationship with our customers and our employees.

JOST International is a leading Tier 1 supplier in the automotive industry, specializing in innovative solutions for the commercial truck, trailer, and agriculture markets. Our commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement has established us as a trusted partner to OEMs and major industry players. 

POSITION OVERVIEW: The Plant Manager will be responsible for leading all aspects of production, ensuring safety, quality, and efficiency, while driving continuous improvement in the manufacturing process. This role requires a strong understanding of heavy machinery, industrial processes, logistics, and leadership capabilities to ensure the facility meets production targets and quality standards while adhering to budget and safety regulations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Include, but are not limited to:

Operations Management & Strategy:

· Oversee day-to-day operations of the manufacturing plant, ensuring efficient production processes.

· Manage production schedules and workflows to ensure timely delivery of products.

· Monitor plant performance and implement corrective actions as needed to meet quality, cost, and time objectives.

· Coordinate with other departments (quality control, maintenance, procurement) to ensure smooth operations.

· Work closely with senior leadership to ensure alignment of operational strategies with the company’s overall objectives.

· Develop and implement operational strategies, policies, and procedures to improve operational performance.

· Fluent with newest technology in manufacturing processes and automation efforts.

Leadership & Team Development:

· Lead, motivate, and develop a team of managers, supervisors, and support staff.

· Coach and mentor team members to improve individual and team performance.

· Ensure efficient team structure to assure production demands are met and workloads are balanced.

· Promote a culture of transparency with safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

· Promote cross collaboration amongst all departments and grow team members.

Safety & Compliance:

· Enforce safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment for all employees.

· Monitor compliance with local, state, and federal regulations regarding safety, environmental impact, and labor laws.

· Conduct regular safety audits, inspections, and training.

Quality Control:

· Ensure that all products meet or exceed the company’s quality standards and customer specifications.

· Work closely with the quality control team to resolve any product defects or production issues.

· Implement corrective actions and process improvements to maintain high-quality standards.

Budgeting & Cost Control:

· Develop and manage the annual plant budget, ensuring cost-effective operations.

· Monitor and control labor, material, and overhead costs.

· Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or safety.

Continuous Improvement:

· Lead continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, etc.) to improve plant efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance productivity.

· Implement best practices and new technologies to improve manufacturing processes.

· Lead the workforce to engage in a continuous improvement culture.

Maintenance & Equipment:

· Oversee the maintenance department to assure the equipment is operating safely and as it should.

· Ensure that all equipment is regularly serviced to prevent downtime.

· Work with the maintenance team to schedule and prioritize repairs and upgrades.

Inventory Management:

· Oversee inventory control, ensuring that raw materials and finished products are efficiently managed.

· Ensure that production schedules are met without stockouts or excess inventory.

· Working knowledge of SAP to effectively manage operations.

Reporting & Documentation:

· Prepare and submit reports on production performance, safety, quality, and other key metrics.

· Maintain accurate records of production processes, inventory levels, and maintenance activities.

· Provide updates to workforce on a regular basis.

Financial Responsibilities:

· Manage operations personnel to meet specific KPI’s and keep labor cost efficient.

· Manage capital equipment budget.

· Manage cost control of purchases made through the plant operations team.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor's degree in a technical field or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of experience of program management experience, ideally in automotive or heavy-duty trucking.
• PMP certification preferred.
• Proven organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• The ability to exercise good judgement and communicate effectively.
• Excellent management and communication skills.
• Ability to think strategically and execute tactically.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:

• Results-oriented with a strong drive for excellence and continuous improvement.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and ethical standards.
• Adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Innovative thinker with the ability to identify and capitalize on new business opportunities.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Work is generally performed in office setting.
• While performing duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, see, hear and  frequently required to walk; use hands, reach, stoop, bend, twist, stand and occasionally will be required to lift or move objects up to 50 pounds.