Production Manager / Plant Operations
(Greenfield Facility)
Location: Houston, TX
Travel: Domestic and international (Germany required)
Position Summary
We are seeking a hands-on, execution-driven manufacturing leader to design, build, and operate a new assembly and testing facility. This role is responsible for taking a greenfield concept from initial layout through full production, including equipment selection, facility design, process implementation, and team leadership.
The ideal candidate combines strong technical manufacturing & assembly expertise with operational leadership and the ability to implement disciplined, high-quality processes aligned with European engineering standards.
Key Responsibilities
Facility Design & Buildout
Lead full plant layout design including workflow, material flow, and space utilization
Define equipment requirements and lead procurement of all production, assembly, and testing equipment
Oversee installation, commissioning, and validation of equipment and production lines
Manage transition from temporary shop operations to permanent facility with minimal disruption
Process Development & Implementation
Develop and implement standardized manufacturing processes for assembly and testing
Establish production workflows aligned with strict quality and engineering standards
Implement lean manufacturing principles, continuous improvement, and efficiency optimization
Ensure documentation of all processes, SOPs, and work instructions
Quality Assurance / Quality Control
Enforce and (if necessary) enhance the existing QA/QC program across all operations
Ensure compliance with applicable industry standards, certifications, and customer requirements (example: ISO 9001)
Implement inspection protocols, testing procedures in conjunction with existing traceability systems
Drive a culture of quality and accountability across the organization
Operations & Production Management
Own day-to-day plant operations including production planning, scheduling, and throughput
Ensure on-time delivery, cost control, and operational efficiency
Monitor KPIs and continuously improve performance across safety, quality, and productivity
Prepare monthly production reports for executive team with forecasting and cost analysis
Able to own and manage a production line budget and optimize P&L related to production
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, hire, and develop production, QA/QC, and supervisory staff
Build a high-performance culture with clear accountability and standards
Develop training material in conjunction with engineering and train personnel on processes, quality requirements, and safety procedures
Develop leadership bench strength within the organization
International Integration (Germany)
Travel to Germany (as required) to learn existing engineering and manufacturing processes
Translate and implement German manufacturing standards and practices into U.S. operations
Coordinate closely with engineering and technical teams to ensure alignment
Maintain ongoing collaboration to ensure consistency across global operations
Qualifications
10+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
Proven experience building or scaling a manufacturing facility (greenfield or major expansion preferred)
Strong background in assembly-based manufacturing (electrical (preferred), mechanical, or industrial systems)
Experience with QA/QC systems and strict compliance environments
Demonstrated success implementing lean manufacturing and process discipline
Experience selecting and commissioning production equipment
Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects
Preferred:
Experience with manufacturing of switchgear, control panels, or industrial power systems
Familiarity with European manufacturing standards or working with German engineering teams
Six Sigma, Lean, or similar operational certifications
Key Attributes
Highly organized and process-driven
Hands-on leader willing to be on the floor
Strong decision-maker with ownership mentality
Ability to operate in a fast-moving, build-as-you-go environment
High standards for quality, safety, and execution
What Success Looks Like in the First 12–18 Months
Facility layout finalized and fully operational
Equipment installed, commissioned, and producing at target capacity
Standardized processes and QA/QC systems fully implemented
Production ramp achieved with consistent quality and on-time delivery
High-performing team in place with clear accountability