Job Title: Plant ManagerJob Description

We are seeking an experienced Plant Manager to lead a full bakery startup operation. This role demands strong leadership capabilities, a deep technical understanding of baking processes, and hands-on management of a multi-shift production environment. The ideal candidate will possess direct baking experience, preferably in wafer or cracker manufacturing, and demonstrate a team-first leadership style with a strong 'can-do' attitude. The Plant Manager will be responsible for scaling up plant operations, establishing systems and standards, building a strong team culture, and ensuring safe, efficient, and consistent production.

ResponsibilitiesLead the full startup of a new bakery production facility, from pre-operational planning through stable operation.Develop, implement, and manage production strategies, KPIs, SOPs, and staffing plans.Build and mentor a high-performing team across all production shifts.Oversee the entire baking process, including ingredient receiving and handling, dough/batter preparation, and baking (wafer/cracker preferred).Troubleshoot bakery equipment, thermal systems, and process issues in real time.Ensure strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety standards (HACCP, regulatory requirements), and occupational health and safety protocols.Establish plant sanitation and preventive maintenance expectations.Manage manpower, scheduling, and performance across multiple shifts.Monitor production efficiency, waste, yield, and equipment uptime.Optimize line performance for throughput, quality, and consistency.Oversee raw material and finished goods inventory control.Manage warehouse operations, shipping, receiving, and logistics coordination.Drive Lean, 5S, and process-improvement initiatives.Lead root-cause analysis and corrective actions to improve quality and reduce downtime.Collaborate with engineering and automation teams to enhance system performance.Essential Skills5+ years of experience in industrial baking, ideally in wafer or cracker production.Knowledge of ingredient receiving, handling, processing, and dough/batter preparation.Experience operating and troubleshooting bakery equipment (mixers, ovens, coolers, conveyors, packaging).Ability to diagnose and optimize thermal systems and baking parameters.Experience with automated or high-speed food packaging lines.Strong understanding of GMPs, HACCP, food safety, sanitation, and preventive maintenance.Experience managing multi-shift plant operations and optimizing production throughput, waste, and efficiency.Experience with inventory control, warehousing, shipping/receiving workflows.Experience in Lean/5S and continuous improvement practices.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience with wafer/cracker production is a plus.Work Environment

The work environment is a multi-shift production facility that utilizes industrial baking equipment and automated systems. The role involves hands-on management and troubleshooting in a fast-paced setting, requiring adherence to safety and sanitation standards. The Plant Manager will work closely with a diverse team to ensure efficient production and continuous improvement.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Columbus, OH.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $120000.00 - $160000.00/yr.

Health & Wellness BenefitsMedical Insurance – Comprehensive medical coverage with access to national provider networks.Dental Insurance – Preventive, basic, and major dental service coverage.Vision Insurance – Exams, frames, lenses, and contact lens benefits.Mental Health Support – Employee Assistance Program (EAP), counseling sessions, and well‑being resources.Wellness Programs – Incentives for healthy activities, health coaching, and preventive care options.Financial & Retirement Benefits401(k) Retirement Plan – Employer matching contributions to support long‑term financial security.Life Insurance – Company‑paid basic life coverage with optional supplemental plans.Short‑Term & Long‑Term Disability – Income protection programs for unexpected medical conditions.Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA) – Tax‑advantaged accounts for medical and dependent‑care expenses.Time Off & Work–Life BalancePaid Time Off (PTO) – Vacation, personal days, and sick leave.Paid Holidays – Company‑recognized holidays throughout the year.Parental Leave – Paid leave options for birth, adoption, or fostering.Flexible Work Arrangements – Options for remote, hybrid, or adjusted schedules (role-dependent).

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Columbus,OH.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 17, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.