At Trident Maritime Systems – Heavy Equipment Group, we don’t just build systems—we build careers. As a leader in the marine and defense industry, we’re looking for innovative, forward-thinking professionals who are ready to take on complex challenges and deliver real-world solutions.
We are seeking a Plant Manager to work on-site at our Rhinelander, WI location. The Plant Manager will direct and manage all plant operations with overall responsibilities such as:
MAJOR DUTIES:
Safety & Environmental Management
QUALIFICATIONS
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, 401(k) with company match, tuition reimbursement and additional perks designed to support your well-being and professional growth. Come join our winning Team!
We are seeking a Plant Manager to work on-site at our Rhinelander, WI location. The Plant Manager will direct and manage all plant operations with overall responsibilities such as:
MAJOR DUTIES:
Safety & Environmental Management
- Enforce plant safety programs and environmental compliance (OSHA, EPA, and local regulations)
- Promote a strong safety culture and ensure all employees are trained in safe work practices
- Investigate incidents and implement corrective and preventive actions
- Lead day-to-day manufacturing operations for all product lines including fabrication, assembly, testing, and delivery
- Ensure production schedules align with contract milestones, customer requirements.
- Optimize plant performance through capacity planning, lean manufacturing, and process improvements
- Manage equipment maintenance, facility upgrades, and capital investments
- Ensure compliance with defense industry standards (e.g., ISO, AS9100, MIL-STD, NAVSEA requirements)
- Maintain strict adherence to government regulations, export controls (ITAR/EAR), and security protocols
- Oversee quality assurance systems, audits, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Ensure all products meet technical, safety, and reliability standards required for defense applications
- Lead, mentor, and develop production, engineering, quality, and maintenance teams
- Build a high-performance culture focused on accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement
- Manage staffing levels, performance evaluations, and training programs
- Collaborate with HR on hiring, retention, and workforce planning
- Develop and manage plant budgets, operating costs, and productivity targets
- Track KPIs related to safety, quality, delivery, and cost
- Support contract reviews, risk assessments, and program execution
- Partner with supply chain, engineering, and program management to ensure contract success.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related experience; Master’s degree in engineering, Business, or Operations Management is preferred.
- 8–12+ years of manufacturing leadership experience, preferably in defense, aerospace, or heavy industrial environments
- Strong knowledge of defense manufacturing standards and government contracting requirements
- Proven experience managing large, technical production teams
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Experience with naval systems, shipbuilding, or marine defense platforms preferred
- Lean Six Sigma or continuous improvement certification a plus
- Active or eligible security clearance a plus
- Manufacturing and industrial plant environment
- May require access to secure or classified areas
- Occasional travel to customers, shipyard, or government sites
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, 401(k) with company match, tuition reimbursement and additional perks designed to support your well-being and professional growth. Come join our winning Team!
