Plant Operations Manager

THE COMPANY

A respected market leader in the Food and Beverage industry is seeking a hands-on, results-driven Plant Operations Manager to join its flagship manufacturing facility with over 1000 employees. This highly visible role is a clear and accelerated path to Plant Manager for a high-performing leader. This organization is known for recognizing employees and promoting distinguished performers. The Plant Operations Manager is based in Modesto, CA.

THE POSITION

About the Role
As Plant Operations Manager, you will oversee daily production and planning within a large, fast-paced unionized manufacturing facility that supports up to 1,000 employees. Directly managing a team of 150–300, with two direct reports, you will be responsible for driving performance, efficiency, and team engagement. This is a key leadership position with strong cross-functional visibility and influence across the site leadership team.

You will drive operational excellence by:

• Implementing standard work and leading change management initiatives
• Sustaining continuous improvement through disciplined execution and autonomous maintenance
• Engaging and developing employees to foster a high-performance culture
• Collaborating with HR, Maintenance, Quality, and CI teams to meet production targets

What Sets This Role Apart

• Fast-track promotion potential to Plant Manager
• Work at a flagship facility within a well-established, high-performance organization
• Being part of a company known for respect, recognition, and internal promotion
• Enjoy a full relocation package, strong bonus, 9% 401(k) match, and tuition reimbursement

THE CANDIDATE

Candidate Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) essential.
• 7+ years of experience in Food, Beverage, Pharmaceutical, or CPG manufacturing.
• 7+ years in operations or plant leadership roles.
• Experience in medium-to-large facilities (400+ employees).
• Strong background in Continuous Improvement.
• Union experience is highly preferred.
• High impact leader. Proven ability to lead teams in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Passion for developing talent and driving engagement.
• Career stability is particularly important (no job hopping)

** No work visa sponsorship.