Structural Steel Plant Operations Manager

Structural Steel Plant Operations Manager

Location: Gallaway, TN
Job Type: Direct Hire
Starting Salary: $80,000/year (Higher salary available based on experience)

Position Overview

Seeking an experienced fabrication operations leader to oversee production across two nearby facilities and two shifts. This position provides direct leadership to shop supervisors and is responsible for safety, production efficiency, quality, maintenance, scheduling, and on-time shipping.

The ideal candidate has a strong structural steel fabrication background, experience with AISC and AWS requirements, knowledge of coating standards, and a hands-on leadership approach.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct daily fabrication operations across two facilities within approximately one mile of each other.
• Lead production supervisors and oversee approximately 65 employees, with planned growth to approximately 90.
• Manage operations across multiple departments, including:
  • Receiving / Inventory
  • CNC Processing
  • Fabrication / Welding
  • Paint / Coating
  • Shipping
  • Maintain a safe work environment and ensure personnel follow applicable safety practices.
  • Monitor production efficiency, quality, workflow, and delivery schedules.
  • Coordinate facility and equipment maintenance to minimize production interruptions.
  • Support production scheduling and ensure customer shipments remain on schedule.
  • Lead workforce development, recruitment and retention efforts, succession planning, and employee performance activities.
  • Identify operational issues and improvement opportunities and drive corrective actions.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives across both facilities.
  • Provide regular operational support and updates to senior leadership.

Required Qualifications

• 7+ years of structural steel fabrication experience.
• 5+ years of leadership experience in fabrication, manufacturing, or production.
• Strong knowledge of AWS D1.1; CWI certification preferred but not required.
• Experience working in an AISC-certified shop or fabrication environment.
• Proven experience managing large, heavy, and complex fabrication projects.
• Knowledge of SSPC and ASTM coating requirements.
• Strong understanding of fabrication operations, workflows, and production practices.
• Experience overseeing multiple fabrication departments and production functions.
• Strong communication, organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to identify potential production issues and improvement opportunities before they impact operations.
• U.S. work eligibility required.

Benefits

• Monthly shop productivity bonus.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• PTO and paid holidays.
• Relocation assistance.
• Monthly cellular plan reimbursement.