Production Manager

Plant Operations Manager

• Trade know-how meets operational leadership
• Growing business with supportive management
• Shoalhaven | Monday–Friday | Competitive salary

About Us

At On Line Recruitment, we’re about people, local connections and finding the right fit. We get to know the business behind each opportunity so we can give you a clear picture of the role and support you along the way.

About the Opportunity

Do you have a mechanical or electrical trade background, experience leading people and the ability to keep a manufacturing operation running smoothly?

Our client is growing and has created a new Plant Operations Manager position to support the next stage of its food and beverage manufacturing operations in the Shoalhaven.

Reporting to the COO and General Manager, you’ll oversee the day-to-day running of the plant, coordinating production, packaging and logistics. You’ll be involved on the floor, supporting the team, troubleshooting equipment issues and making practical decisions to keep production moving.

This opportunity would suit a Mechanical Fitter, Maintenance Fitter, Fitter & Turner or Industrial Electrician who has developed strong leadership and operational skills. You may already manage a manufacturing operation or be an experienced team leader or supervisor ready to take broader responsibility.

You’ll bring an understanding of machinery, an organised approach to production and the confidence to lead people, set priorities and improve how the plant operates.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily plant operations across production, packaging and logistics
• Plan and coordinate people, equipment and resources to meet production and delivery requirements
• Lead and support the production team, setting clear expectations and building capability
• Troubleshoot machinery issues and undertake maintenance within your qualifications and capabilities, coordinating specialist contractors when required
• Plan preventative maintenance to improve equipment reliability and minimise downtime
• Research machinery options and assist with equipment selection, installation and commissioning
• Identify and implement improvements to workflow, productivity, safety and quality
• Work with internal teams, suppliers and service providers to keep operations on track
• Maintain a strong focus on food safety, workplace safety and operating procedures
• Report to the COO and General Manager on plant performance, operational priorities and improvement opportunities

About You

You’re practical, technically minded and comfortable taking responsibility. You enjoy understanding how equipment works, but you also see the bigger picture—how people, production schedules, maintenance and logistics need to work together.

Ideally, you will bring:

• A relevant trade qualification, such as Mechanical Fitter, Maintenance Fitter, Fitter & Turner or Industrial Electrician
• Experience maintaining or supporting machinery in a manufacturing environment, preferably food and beverage
• Demonstrated leadership experience as a supervisor, team leader, maintenance leader or operations manager
• The ability to plan workloads, coordinate resources and manage competing production priorities
• Strong fault-finding skills and a practical approach to equipment reliability
• An understanding of production processes, quality requirements and workplace safety
• Clear communication skills and the ability to work effectively with staff, management and external contractors
• Initiative to improve processes and support the introduction of new equipment and systems

You don’t need to have held the title of Plant Operations Manager. If you can demonstrate the technical knowledge, leadership experience and operational judgement to take the next step, we encourage you to apply.

What Our Client Offers

• The opportunity to shape a newly created role and make a direct contribution to plant performance
• A supportive, involved leadership team with a clear vision for the business
• The chance to combine your trade knowledge with broader leadership and operational responsibility
• A permanent, full-time position in the Shoalhaven with Monday to Friday hours
• A competitive salary package reflecting your skills and experience

Apply Now

If you’re ready to bring your technical experience and leadership skills to a growing local manufacturing business, we’d love to hear from you.

Click ‘Apply Now’ to submit your application, or contact the On Line Recruitment team on 02 4421 2700 for more information.

We appreciate the time and effort taken to apply. All applications will be treated confidentially and considered against the requirements of the role. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.