Mid Level Plant Manager Jobs
Mid level plant manager jobs go to candidates ready to own daily production outcomes, coordinate cross-functional teams, and drive continuous-improvement initiatives with limited oversight. Hiring runs predominantly on-site across Manufacturing, Chemicals & Materials, and Staffing & Recruiting, with employers like Jobot, Heidelberg Materials Us, Inc. (Formerly Known As Lehigh Hanson, Inc.), and Greif competing for plant managers at this level now.
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INTRODUCTION
Greif is a global leader in performance packaging located in 40 countries. The company delivers trusted, innovative, and tailored solutions that support some of the world's most in demand and fastest-growing industries. With a commitment to legendary customer service, operational excellence, and global sustainability, Greif packages life's essentials and creates lasting value for its colleagues, customers, and other stakeholders.
Our Vision
To Be the Advantage That Helps Our Customers Win.
Our Purpose
Creating packaging solutions for life’s essentials.
Job Requisition #: 035134
Job Description
Greif is seeking a Plant Engineering Manager to lead the mill’s engineering, process optimization, automation, and capital project initiatives at our Milwaukee paper mill. This strategic leadership role is responsible for improving long-term mill performance through continuous improvement, data-driven decision making, and execution of projects that enhance safety, quality, reliability, throughput, and cost performance. This role is ideal for a technically strong engineering leader who thrives on solving complex manufacturing challenges, advancing automation capabilities, and driving meaningful operational improvements. The Plant Engineering Manager partners closely with Operations, Maintenance, EHS, and Quality while leading a small, high-impact technical team focused on delivering sustainable business results.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As Plant Engineering Manager, you will provide leadership and direction for the mill’s engineering and technical improvement efforts, including oversight of the Controls Engineer and Process/Project Engineer. You will identify opportunities to improve process performance, reduce variability, optimize automation systems, and execute capital projects that strengthen the mill’s competitive position. You will play a key role in shaping the future performance of the operation by leveraging technology, engineering expertise, and cross-functional collaboration to drive continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization:
- Lead initiatives that improve machine efficiency, fiber utilization, throughput, and manufacturing costs.
- Analyze process data and operating trends to reduce variability and improve product consistency.
- Facilitate structured problem-solving efforts to eliminate chronic process losses and performance constraints.
- Identify and implement opportunities that improve operational performance and long-term reliability.
Controls & Automation Leadership:
- Provide leadership and direction for mill automation and process control systems.
- Partner with the Controls Engineer to optimize DCS and PLC systems.
- Improve control loop performance, process stability, and overall system effectiveness.
- Reduce manual intervention through automation enhancements and process control improvements.
- Identify, prioritize, and implement automation upgrades that support business objectives.
Capital Project Management:
- Develop and execute capital projects aligned with mill and business priorities.
- Identify debottlenecking opportunities that increase production capacity and operational efficiency.
- Manage projects from concept through implementation, ensuring delivery on time and within budget.
- Minimize operational disruption during project execution.
- Track, measure, and validate project results and performance improvements.
Process & Technical Leadership:
- Optimize paper machine, stock preparation, and converting processes.
- Support process trials, equipment evaluations, and new product development initiatives.
- Apply technical expertise and data analytics to drive informed decision making.
- Provide technical guidance and recommendations to support operational excellence.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Partner with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and EHS teams to achieve plant goals.
- Align engineering initiatives with operational priorities and business objectives.
- Support successful implementation and sustainability of process improvements.
- Foster strong communication and collaboration across departments.
Team Leadership & Development:
- Lead, coach, and develop the Controls Engineer and Process/Project Engineer.
- Establish priorities based on operational and business impact.
- Promote accountability, innovation, and continuous learning.
- Build technical capability and support succession planning within the engineering team.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering required.
- Experience in paper manufacturing or a similar process manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of process systems, manufacturing operations, and industrial automation.
- Experience working with DCS, PLC, and process control systems.
- Proven project management experience with successful capital project execution.
- Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and influence cross-functional stakeholders.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
- Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
- Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
Why This Role Matters
This role directly impacts mill performance, operational reliability, process capability, and long-term competitiveness. As Plant Engineering Manager, you will help shape the future of the Milwaukee mill by advancing automation, improving process performance, executing strategic capital investments, and developing engineering talent that supports sustainable growth.
Why Greif
At Greif, your work supports essential products and customers around the world. We are a global leader in industrial packaging products and services, committed to safety, operational excellence, and developing our people. If you are looking for an opportunity to lead meaningful engineering initiatives, influence mill performance, and drive continuous improvement in a complex manufacturing environment, we encourage you to apply. At Greif, we believe that our colleagues are the center of our success. Our Total Rewards have a comprehensive focus on well-being and offer a competitive package that enables you to thrive, be engaged, and reach your full potential.
COMPENSATION RANGE
The pay range for this position is $129,500.00 - $220,500.00 annually. Typically, a competitive wage for new hires will fall between $145,000.00 to $160,000.00 annually. Offers for this position may vary based on market data and other factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and geographic location. The position may also be eligible for a short-term incentive.
BENEFITS STATEMENT
Greif offers a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive core benefits, paid time off, and a range of local benefits for eligible colleagues.
Protect Yourself From Scams:
We value the integrity of our recruitment process and prioritize the well-being of our candidates. While you may find Greif job postings on various platforms, all legitimate opportunities can be verified on our official Careers page at www.greif.com. All communication from Greif regarding job opportunities will also come from an @greif.com email address. If you have concerns about the legitimacy of a job posting, receive an unsolicited job offer or suspect fraudulent activity, please contact us for verification via this link Contact Us - Greif.
EEO STATEMENT
We offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits and opportunity for growth. Greif is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of sex, race, religion, age, national origin, color, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected characteristic. For more information read Greif’s Equal Opportunity Policy.
INTRODUCTION
Greif is a global leader in performance packaging located in 40 countries. The company delivers trusted, innovative, and tailored solutions that support some of the world's most in demand and fastest-growing industries. With a commitment to legendary customer service, operational excellence, and global sustainability, Greif packages life's essentials and creates lasting value for its colleagues, customers, and other stakeholders.
Our Vision
To Be the Advantage That Helps Our Customers Win.
Our Purpose
Creating packaging solutions for life’s essentials.
Job Requisition #: 035134
Job Description
Greif is seeking a Plant Engineering Manager to lead the mill’s engineering, process optimization, automation, and capital project initiatives at our Milwaukee paper mill. This strategic leadership role is responsible for improving long-term mill performance through continuous improvement, data-driven decision making, and execution of projects that enhance safety, quality, reliability, throughput, and cost performance. This role is ideal for a technically strong engineering leader who thrives on solving complex manufacturing challenges, advancing automation capabilities, and driving meaningful operational improvements. The Plant Engineering Manager partners closely with Operations, Maintenance, EHS, and Quality while leading a small, high-impact technical team focused on delivering sustainable business results.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As Plant Engineering Manager, you will provide leadership and direction for the mill’s engineering and technical improvement efforts, including oversight of the Controls Engineer and Process/Project Engineer. You will identify opportunities to improve process performance, reduce variability, optimize automation systems, and execute capital projects that strengthen the mill’s competitive position. You will play a key role in shaping the future performance of the operation by leveraging technology, engineering expertise, and cross-functional collaboration to drive continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization:
- Lead initiatives that improve machine efficiency, fiber utilization, throughput, and manufacturing costs.
- Analyze process data and operating trends to reduce variability and improve product consistency.
- Facilitate structured problem-solving efforts to eliminate chronic process losses and performance constraints.
- Identify and implement opportunities that improve operational performance and long-term reliability.
Controls & Automation Leadership:
- Provide leadership and direction for mill automation and process control systems.
- Partner with the Controls Engineer to optimize DCS and PLC systems.
- Improve control loop performance, process stability, and overall system effectiveness.
- Reduce manual intervention through automation enhancements and process control improvements.
- Identify, prioritize, and implement automation upgrades that support business objectives.
Capital Project Management:
- Develop and execute capital projects aligned with mill and business priorities.
- Identify debottlenecking opportunities that increase production capacity and operational efficiency.
- Manage projects from concept through implementation, ensuring delivery on time and within budget.
- Minimize operational disruption during project execution.
- Track, measure, and validate project results and performance improvements.
Process & Technical Leadership:
- Optimize paper machine, stock preparation, and converting processes.
- Support process trials, equipment evaluations, and new product development initiatives.
- Apply technical expertise and data analytics to drive informed decision making.
- Provide technical guidance and recommendations to support operational excellence.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Partner with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and EHS teams to achieve plant goals.
- Align engineering initiatives with operational priorities and business objectives.
- Support successful implementation and sustainability of process improvements.
- Foster strong communication and collaboration across departments.
Team Leadership & Development:
- Lead, coach, and develop the Controls Engineer and Process/Project Engineer.
- Establish priorities based on operational and business impact.
- Promote accountability, innovation, and continuous learning.
- Build technical capability and support succession planning within the engineering team.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering required.
- Experience in paper manufacturing or a similar process manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of process systems, manufacturing operations, and industrial automation.
- Experience working with DCS, PLC, and process control systems.
- Proven project management experience with successful capital project execution.
- Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and influence cross-functional stakeholders.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
- Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
- Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
Why This Role Matters
This role directly impacts mill performance, operational reliability, process capability, and long-term competitiveness. As Plant Engineering Manager, you will help shape the future of the Milwaukee mill by advancing automation, improving process performance, executing strategic capital investments, and developing engineering talent that supports sustainable growth.
Why Greif
At Greif, your work supports essential products and customers around the world. We are a global leader in industrial packaging products and services, committed to safety, operational excellence, and developing our people. If you are looking for an opportunity to lead meaningful engineering initiatives, influence mill performance, and drive continuous improvement in a complex manufacturing environment, we encourage you to apply. At Greif, we believe that our colleagues are the center of our success. Our Total Rewards have a comprehensive focus on well-being and offer a competitive package that enables you to thrive, be engaged, and reach your full potential.
COMPENSATION RANGE
The pay range for this position is $129,500.00 - $220,500.00 annually. Typically, a competitive wage for new hires will fall between $145,000.00 to $160,000.00 annually. Offers for this position may vary based on market data and other factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and geographic location. The position may also be eligible for a short-term incentive.
BENEFITS STATEMENT
Greif offers a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive core benefits, paid time off, and a range of local benefits for eligible colleagues.
Protect Yourself From Scams:
We value the integrity of our recruitment process and prioritize the well-being of our candidates. While you may find Greif job postings on various platforms, all legitimate opportunities can be verified on our official Careers page at www.greif.com. All communication from Greif regarding job opportunities will also come from an @greif.com email address. If you have concerns about the legitimacy of a job posting, receive an unsolicited job offer or suspect fraudulent activity, please contact us for verification via this link Contact Us - Greif.
EEO STATEMENT
We offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits and opportunity for growth. Greif is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of sex, race, religion, age, national origin, color, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected characteristic. For more information read Greif’s Equal Opportunity Policy.
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Top Industries Hiring
- Manufacturing
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- Staffing & Recruiting
- Food & Beverage
- Healthcare & Medical Services
Mid Level Plant Manager Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a mid level plant manager job?
Position your experience around ownership, not just participation. Highlight specific production goals you set and met, process improvements you led, and any direct supervision of line workers or technicians. Applications that quantify throughput gains, downtime reductions, or safety record improvements stand out. Tailor your resume to the plant type and industry in each posting, and be ready to discuss how you handle competing priorities on the floor.
Which companies hire mid level plant managers?
Companies hiring mid level plant managers right now include Jobot, Heidelberg Materials Us, Inc. (Formerly Known As Lehigh Hanson, Inc.), and Greif, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. At this level, hiring covers established manufacturers with multi-shift operations as well as growing mid-size producers scaling output, both of which need hands-on managers who can run a floor without constant senior oversight.
Are there remote mid level plant manager jobs?
Yes, though remote work is limited in this predominantly on-site role. About 0% of mid level plant manager openings are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, and those tend to be positions with significant administrative or process-engineering responsibilities rather than direct floor supervision. Most openings require a consistent physical presence at the facility.
How do I move up to a mid level plant manager role?
Getting to mid level is about accumulating demonstrated ownership over time. In your first few years, focus on mastering a specific area of plant operations, volunteering to lead process improvement projects, and taking on informal mentorship of newer technicians or associates. Building a record of measurable results, such as improved cycle times or reduced waste, and earning the trust of senior leadership to act independently are the clearest signals that you are ready for a mid level title.
Which industries hire the most mid level plant managers?
Mid Level plant manager roles concentrate in Manufacturing, Chemicals & Materials, and Staffing & Recruiting, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. These sectors drive consistent demand because they operate continuous or high-volume production environments where a capable mid level manager who can sustain output, enforce safety standards, and develop hourly staff is critical to daily operations.