Jobloria
Plant Manager
Alan N. Daum And Associates
Location : Hickory Hills, IL, 60457
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
Hickory Hills, IL has a moderate demand for experienced Plant Managers, especially in manufacturing hubs. Competition often comes from candidates with CNC machining expertise and leadership experience, making hands-on technical skills combined with team management highly sought after in this locale.
Certifications like Lean Six Sigma, PMP, or specialized CNC programming credentials can significantly boost your profile in Illinois manufacturing jobs. These credentials highlight your ability to optimize production and lead teams effectively, aligning with the expectations of local employers.
Balancing real-time troubleshooting of CNC equipment with maintaining production schedules is common. A Plant Manager here must also coordinate between departments, resolve workflow bottlenecks, and ensure quality without compromising throughput in a family-owned job shop environment.
The company favors Plant Managers who lead by example, demonstrate technical proficiency in G-code programming, and build trust with their machinist teams. Effective communication and hands-on problem-solving skills are crucial to fit their collaborative and detail-oriented culture.
While Chicago roles may offer higher salaries and larger teams, Hickory Hills positions often provide closer-knit work environments with more direct operational influence. The pace might be steadier, allowing for in-depth involvement in CNC programming and production details.
Starting as a skilled machinist or CNC programmer can pave the way, especially when combined with leadership opportunities. Gaining experience in blueprint reading, ERP systems, and production scheduling is vital to transition into managerial responsibilities.
Plant Managers in Hickory Hills typically earn between $85,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience and technical skills. Those proficient in CNC operations and team leadership often command salaries at the higher end of this range.
Alan N. Daum And Associates emphasizes a hands-on leadership style where the Plant Manager actively engages in CNC programming and workflow decisions, fostering a family-owned atmosphere that values technical depth alongside team mentorship.
Proficiency in G-code programming, CNC controls, blueprint reading, and ERP software is essential. The role demands the ability to troubleshoot machining issues promptly and optimize custom workflows for efficient production.
Plant Managers oversee daily production, schedule management, quality assurance, and team leadership. In CNC machining, they additionally ensure precise programming, troubleshoot machine errors, and maintain smooth operations across multi-disciplinary teams.
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