Plant Manager

Job DetailsJob Location: Roosevelt (Corporate Offices) - San Antonio, TX 78210Reports to:   Vice President of Operations                                 Department:  Manufacturing Classification: Exempt                                                       Travel: up to 15%      JOB SUMMARY: The Plant Manager will develop, oversee and implement cost-effective manufacturing operations, with a primary emphasis on employing people who are blind or vision impaired. They will provide leadership and direction for achieving and meeting the overall goals and objectives of the organization, as aligned with corporate vision, mission, values and strategic planning.   JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Manages and leads all Manufacturing Operations, including supervision of managers, supervisors, and leads, ensuring alignment with both operational performance and AbilityOne mission objectives. Drives profitability by product line, including ownership of product-level P&L, cost structure, pricing strategy, and margin optimization across AbilityOne and commercial contracts. Ensures full compliance with AbilityOne Program requirements, including CNA (e.g., SourceAmerica/NIB) guidelines, federal contracting regulations, and customer-specific contract requirements. Partners with Finance and Contracts teams to align pricing with contract structures, wage determinations, and compliance requirements while maintaining sustainable margins. Develops and executes continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost efficiency, labor optimization (including direct labor mix), and margin expansion while supporting employment outcomes for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Establishes short- and long-term operational strategies, including capacity planning, contract fulfillment, and product mix optimization across government and commercial business lines. Maintains a safe and compliant work environment in accordance with OSHA, ISO standards, Aerospace Certifications, and AbilityOne program requirements. Oversees production planning and execution to ensure on-time delivery and contract compliance for federal customers, including DLA and other government agencies. Leads annual budget development and ongoing financial management, including detailed variance analysis by contract and product line, ensuring accountability for revenue, cost, and profitability targets. Monitors external factors including DLA forecasts, government funding changes, and supply chain dynamics, proactively adjusting operations to mitigate risk and protect financial performance. Tracks and improves key operational KPIs, including cost per unit, labor efficiency, direct labor ratios (AbilityOne compliance), scrap, yield, on-time delivery, and product-level margins. Leads workforce development with a focus on training, performance management, and advancement opportunities for employees who are blind or visually impaired, aligning operational success with mission impact. Designs and implements performance management and recognition programs that reinforce both operational excellence and mission achievement. Demonstrates leadership consistent with organizational core values, balancing mission delivery with financial sustainability. Performs additional duties and leads strategic initiatives as assigned, including cost optimization, contract expansion, and operational transformation efforts.QualificationsEDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a manufacturing, business or related field required Experience and familiarity with Ability-One Program, DLA preferred 10 years work experience in direct management of production and manufacturing Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing Knowledgeable with ISO, Aerospace and GMP Standards Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred   SKILLS/ABILITIES:   Ability to make an outstanding first impression Ability to be outgoing and effectively interact with others at all levels Excellent interpersonal and people skills Strong sense of urgency & ability to meet tight deadlines Strong Leadership skills – ability to lead by example Skills in basic math and engineering Excellent managerial skills Focused team player Effective verbal and written communication skills Computer literate Ability to work with a diverse population Ability to inspire and lead a diversified team of managers Internally motivated and driven---a self-starter Ability to plan and develop independently Exemplary problem solving and critical thinking abilities Spanish speaking is a plus   PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to lift 25 lbs. Must be able to sit/stand for long periods of time. Must be able to conduct repetitive motions on a daily basis.     This job description does not imply these are the only duties to be performed.  The incumbent in this position will perform such other tasks as may be required for the effective operations of the Division/Department upon request by his/her supervisor.   Please note: Under the AbilityOne Program, Vibrant Works gives hiring preference to individuals who are legally blind. Any decision to disclose a disability by an applicant related to the hiring preference is completely voluntary. Requesting such information is also a part of our affirmative action efforts. Information that is disclosed will remain confidential. Also, your decision not to disclose disability status will not have a negative impact in the hiring process.   Vibrant Works is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, the use of a dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.