Jobloria
Plant Manager
Alan N. Daum And Associates
Location : Willowbrook, IL, 60527
Job Type : Full Time / Part Time
Date Posted : 2 December 2025
Plant ManagerPlant Manager – CNC Machining Operations
We’re hiring a seasoned CNC Plant Manager to run day-to-day operations at a well-respected, family-owned job shop. We’re looking for someone who thrives in a hands-on environment and can manage a team while getting into the technical details of G-code programming, custom workflows, and scheduling.
If you’ve led in a machine shop, know your way around CNC controls, and still like rolling up your sleeves to solve problems on the floor, this role is built for you.
What You'll Take Charge Of:
- Direct daily production in a custom machining environment
- Manage the full shop schedule to keep jobs moving and customers happy
- Provide technical guidance in CNC programming (G-Code expertise required)
- Serve as a key decision-maker for workflow, quality, and throughput
- Work cross-functionally with quoting, estimating, suppliers, and customers
- Troubleshoot complex machining issues and guide real-time fixes
- Monitor shop metrics, drive process improvements, and uphold quality standards
- Train and support a team of about 15 skilled machinists and operators
- Maintain records and production data in ERP and internal systems
Your Background:
- BS degree in engineering, manufacturing, or a related field — or 5+ years of CNC leadership in a machining environment
- Strong knowledge of CNC machining and G-Code programming
- Proven ability to lead and manage teams in a job shop setting
- Skilled in blueprint reading, part analysis, and technical troubleshooting
- Comfortable managing schedules and juggling priorities across projects
- Proficient with ERP systems, Microsoft Excel, and production documentation
- Known for leading by example and building trust with your team
Freqently Asked Questions
Willowbrook's manufacturing sector shows steady demand for plant managers with CNC expertise, though competition remains moderate. Candidates with strong leadership and g-code programming skills stand out, especially in family-owned shops like Alan N. Daum And Associates, where hands-on technical knowledge is highly valued.
Certifications such as Lean Six Sigma, PMP, or specialized CNC programming credentials are highly regarded in Illinois's manufacturing communities. These qualifications demonstrate a candidate's ability to optimize workflows, enhance quality, and lead cross-functional teams effectively in plants near Willowbrook.
Mastering g-code programming, advanced blueprint reading, and machine troubleshooting are critical for plant managers overseeing CNC operations. Proficiency in ERP systems and scheduling software also ensures smooth production flow and timely delivery in precision job shops.
Unlike standard supervisors, a plant manager integrates hands-on CNC programming with leadership duties, balancing technical problem-solving, schedule management, and team mentoring. This hybrid role demands both operational oversight and deep machining expertise to drive productivity and quality.
Plant managers in Willowbrook typically earn between $85,000 and $110,000 annually, slightly below Chicago's premium market but competitive within suburban Illinois. Indiana roles may offer lower averages due to cost-of-living variations, but CNC-specialized managers often command higher pay across these regions.
Alan N. Daum And Associates values plant managers who lead by example, fostering trust and collaboration among machinists while diving deep into technical challenges. Emphasis is placed on adaptability, hands-on involvement, and the ability to make strategic workflow decisions in a family-owned shop setting.
The Plant Manager acts as a liaison, coordinating closely with quoting teams, suppliers, and customers to align production schedules with client expectations. This cross-functional communication ensures customized machining jobs meet quality standards and delivery timelines.
Experienced plant managers in CNC environments may advance to roles such as Plant Engineering Manager or Director of Manufacturing, expanding their scope to multiple facilities or strategic operations. Skill development in process optimization and team leadership is key for upward mobility.
Balancing diverse skill levels, maintaining tight production schedules, and troubleshooting complex machining issues are common hurdles. Effective communication and real-time problem-solving are essential to keep operations seamless and maintain high-quality standards.
Willowbrook's suburban location offers manageable commutes from Chicago and surrounding areas, promoting a stable workforce. The local work culture favors close-knit teams and hands-on leadership, which aligns well with plant managers who engage directly with shop floor activities.
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