Job Title: Plant Manager

Company Overview: Based in the Washington D.C. area, WD Advanced Materials is a forward-thinking, pioneering technology company and market leader in Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) diamond growth. WDAM employs its industry-leading technology to support and develop diamond solutions for Advanced Material settings, with a focus on advancing next-gen semiconductor, electronic, and quantum applications. WDAM's history is rooted in innovation, disruption, and a commitment to sustainability values that underpin our breakthrough work and set the foundation for our next phase of growth.

Position Overview: We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Plant Manager to oversee our diamond manufacturing facility. The ideal candidate will be a strategic leader who strives in a dynamic start-up environment and has a strong background in manufacturing operations, quality control, and team management. The Plant Manager will be responsible for ensuring the efficient operation of the plant, optimizing production processes, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership:

• Provide strategic direction and leadership to the manufacturing team to achieve production targets and operational objectives.
• Develop and implement efficient manufacturing processes by collecting data for analysis to uncover areas for improvements and innovation, including automation.
• Continuously evaluate and improve plant operations to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Meet or exceed established KPI s. Where applicable, identify and implement KPI s that lead to meeting or exceeding customer expectations for quality and on-time delivery.
• Direct management of 5-10 employees, inclusive of operations and maintenance teams.
• Work with the engineering and sales team to optimize production results and quality.
• Responsibility for the ongoing operations and maintenance of all general electrical and mechanical facility equipment. For example, HVAC systems, generators, chillers and pumps, air compressors, UPS, transformers, and other electrical related equipment.

Quality Control:

• Uphold rigorous quality control measures to ensure that all products meet the company's quality standards and customer specifications.
• Monitor production processes and conduct regular quality audits to identify and address any issues or deviations.
• Oversee training and certification of employees in maintenance work processes and procedures. Certify and cross-train according to production demand.
• Investigate and identify root-cause of any problems that arise with processes, procedures, and operations.
• Write or oversee documentation of all processes.
• Safety and Compliance:
• Champion a culture of safety and compliance throughout the plant, ensuring that all operations meet regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Conduct regular safety inspections and risk assessments to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate safety measures.
• Provide training and resources to employees to promote a safe working environment and prevent accidents or injuries.

Team Management:

• Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing manufacturing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Set clear performance expectations and provide regular feedback and coaching to employees to support their growth and development.
• Conduct and execute manpower planning and facilitate training to develop adequate skills within the team to meet business requirements.
• Communicate effectively across all levels and functions of the business, including direct reports, peers, and senior leadership.

Equipment Uptime:

• Ensure all machinery is up to working standards.
• Identify, troubleshoot, oversee repairs to maintain optimum machine utilization.
• Use data analysis to help prepare for and prevent future problems.
• Create and implement measures to minimize breakdowns and repairs (performing quality checks of all machinery, tools, equipment.
• Oversee on time execution of preventive maintenance activities.

Project Management, Budget Control and Procurement:

• Propose, plan, and ensure on time completion of maintenance projects.
• Responsibility for equipment integration
• Work with the supply chain coordinator to maintain vendor relationships, order, and maintain spare parts inventory.
• Create and monitor and meet maintenance budgets.

Qualifications:

• Mechanical or Electrical Engineering degree, also consider degree in materials engineering or related field such as chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, industrial engineering, or mechanical engineering or equivalent experience.
• 7+ years relevant experience in Plant/Production Manufacturing Management
• Must be a US Citizen due to government contracting requirements.
• Extensive knowledge of a variety of mechanical systems.
• Can effectively and efficiently handle both administrative and mechanical responsibilities.
• Thorough understanding of scientific and mathematical principles.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams to achieve their goals.
• Demonstrated experience in driving operational excellence, continuous improvement, and cost optimization initiatives.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to analyze complex issues and develop effective solutions.
• Demonstrated success identifying and implementing successful Continuous Process Improvement programs.
• Experience working with Defense, Government, and Commercial customers.
• Competency in Microsoft applications including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• An entrepreneurial mindset, who can thrive in a dynamic startup environment, embrace change, and is comfortable with taking calculated risks.
• Start-up mentality, where nothing gets in the way of getting the job done.
• Minimal travel required.

Physical Job Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 80 lbs.
• Ability to use various tools, including hand tools.
• Standing, walking for extended periods of time.
• Tolerating noise and temperature variations.
• Crawling, bending, kneeling, stooping, and climbing.
• Working at elevated heights.
• Manipulating components in hard-to-reach places with hands and tools.

Location: This is a full-time, on-site role. Candidate must be able to commute daily to Beltsville, MD location.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Short- & Long-Term Disability, Group Life Company Provided.
• Retirement savings plan with 4% Match.
• Paid time off and holidays.

How to Apply: Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience for this position. We look forward to reviewing your application!