Plant Manager in Whitewater, Wisconsin at Whitewater - Summerset

About Summerset Marine Construction

Summerset Marine Construction has been providing a full range of lakefront services to its customers in Southeastern Wisconsin since 1990. As the largest pier and lift dealer in Wisconsin, Summerset has grown over the years along with its customers’ needs, able to provide the expertise and products necessary for the perfect waterfront solution. Servicing hundreds of clients from Madison to Milwaukee, Summerset Marine provides the highest level of expertise to design, install and support any pier and boat lift system, always on call for any service needs.

About the role:

Summerset Marine Construction is seeking a hands-on Plant Manager to lead manufacturing operations in a fast-paced fabrication environment. This role has full ownership of safety, production, quality, and people leadership while contributing to long-term operational strategy and company growth. If you thrive on building strong teams, driving continuous improvement, and delivering high-quality products on time, this is an opportunity to make a real impact.

What you'll do:

• Lead and continuously improve the Manufacturing Plan, focusing on production metrics, labor efficiency, and process optimization.
• Develop and manage production schedules aligned with customer demand and internal goals.
• Establish and maintain an effective manufacturing organizational structure, including staffing levels and responsibilities.
• Champion Lean manufacturing, 5S, and PDCA problem-solving to drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with Sales and Service teams to coordinate schedules, address production needs, and ensure smooth project execution.
• Conduct weekly reviews of production metrics, capacity, and forecasts to align with business objectives.
• Manage supplier relationships to ensure cost efficiency, on-time delivery, and throughput performance.
• Oversee inventory management to prevent shortages or excess stock.
• Support and strengthen the company’s quality control system, ensuring all products meet established standards.
• Actively enforce and promote the safety program, ensuring compliance with all regulations.
• Develop employees through SMART goals, performance reviews, career planning, and cross-training.
• Apply financial acumen to manage labor rates, margins, and overall manufacturing costs.
• Establish, enforce, and improve standard operating procedures across manufacturing operations.
• Perform other duties as needed to support overall operational success.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 4+ years of experience in manufacturing or fabrication leadership in similar role.
• Proven ability to lead teams and achieve production, safety, and quality goals.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting CAD drawings.
• Strong knowledge of steel and aluminum fabrication processes.
• Experience with employee scheduling, training, performance management, and discipline.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• OSHA knowledge and Lean manufacturing experience strongly preferred.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills across technical and non-technical audiences.

Work Behaviors:

Quality of Work

• Consistently produces accurate work.

Commitment and Initiative

• Consistently demonstrates commitment to the Company’s success and growth.

• Customer-focused (both internal and external customers).
• Can identify problems/issues and participate in problem resolution as appropriate for job level.
• Perseverance “can-do” attitude.

Managing Time and Resources

• Effectively and efficiently manages workload with an appropriate sense of urgency.
• Flexible and adaptable to meet changing priorities and workload.
• Meets established goals.
• Reliable and punctual.

Working with Others

• Is seen as a team player; gains trust by supporting colleagues; is a collaborator.
• Makes others better.

Development and Professional Skills

• Seeks and is open to feedback.
• Accountable for one’s own actions.
• Complies with company policies and procedures.

Working Conditions and Physical Efforts:

• Work is primarily performed in an office setting.
• Frequent walking around the production area is required.
• Ability to lift up to 50lbs as needed for various plant tasks.
• Exposure to production environments may involve some physical effort, including lifting, standing, and walking for extended periods.

Travel Requirements:

• Occasional travel to other locations may be required for meetings or site inspections.

Comprehensive Benefits Package:

• 401(k) Matching: Generous company contribution to support your retirement goals.
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Robust coverage options to keep you and your family healthy.
• Health Savings Account (HSA): Receive a $1,000 company contribution when you enroll in a medical plan.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy time away to recharge and relax.
• Employee Referral Program: Earn rewards for referring top talent to our team.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Invest in your future with educational assistance to advance your skills.

Join us and become a vital part of our marine construction team. Apply today!