Plant Manager - ZipRecruiter : Job Details

Job DescriptionPlant Manager – Food Facility | Chicago, IL

We're looking for a hands-on Plant Manager to lead a rapidly evolving food processing facility in Chicago. This is a newly acquired operation and part of a fast-growing food company with big plans across the Midwest. We need a strong, experienced leader who can take full ownership of production, implement new systems, and lead operational change from the ground up.

This is not a role for someone who wants to maintain what's already in place—we're seeking a change agent who thrives in the details, drives accountability, and knows how to elevate plant performance across the board. If you're experienced in food production, passionate about food safety, and ready to bring structure and energy to a growing facility, we want to talk.

Salary: $120,000–$150,000 + performance-based bonus

Location: Chicago, IL (relocation on a case by case basis)

Reports To: Director of Operations

Industry Focus: Food manufacturing

You'll Thrive If You:

• Lead from the floor and aren't afraid to get into the details
• Understand the complexity of a fast-paced, evolving company and how to manage it effectively
• Can create systems where there are gaps—and bring people along with you
• Are motivated by growth, change, and building something better every day

What You'll Be Responsible For

• Oversee all day-to-day operations of food processing, including labor, equipment, and output
• Lead and develop a team of 2 departments with 2 Production Managers, 4 supervisors, and 50+ production staff in a high-paced, regulated environment
• Implement systems and processes to improve throughput, labor efficiency, and overall plant performance
• Build and maintain a culture of food safety, ensuring full compliance with USDA, HACCP, and company standards
• Collaborate cross-functionally with QA, maintenance, HR, and senior leadership to align goals and drive results
• Track and improve key metrics such as yield, downtime, quality, and on-time production
• Prepare the plant for future expansion, including a potential second shift within the next year
• Provide clear leadership and accountability on the floor, coaching teams and holding performance to standard

Requirements:

• BS in Food Science, Operations Management, Engineering, Business, or related field is required or an equivalent of 10+ years of meat processing leadership experience
• 7+ years of experience in food processing, with 5+ years in plant or operations leadership
• Strong knowledge of food production practices, food safety systems, and USDA/HACCP compliance
• Must have 5+ years of food manufacturing experience, meat experience would be a plus
• Proven success in building teams and implementing structure in growing or changing environments
• Clear, direct leadership style with strong people management skills
• Demonstrated ability to improve KPIs like labor productivity, throughput, and food safety compliance
• Familiarity with production scheduling systems and Microsoft Office tools

Ready to lead transformation in a growing food facility?

Apply today and take the next step in your operations leadership career.

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