Plant Manager

We are seeking a dynamic Plant Manager to lead our flagship 400,000-square-foot manufacturing operation in Highland, Illinois. As part of our Global Energy Infrastructure Solutions business, this facility manufactures critical systems and enclosures that serve the mechanical, electrical, and telecommunications markets. With approximately $350 million in annual revenue, rapid growth, and a team of 250 employees that continues to expand, this role offers the opportunity to shape the future of a highly visible operation by driving safety, operational performance, talent development, and strategic growth initiatives.

About the role

This is a high-impact leadership role for a proven operator who can both lead through complexity and drive performance transformation at scale. The Plant Manager will have full accountability for the site’s operational, financial, and people performance, with a clear mandate to stabilize, optimize, and elevate plant performance while positioning the facility for continued growth. As Plant Manager, you will set the strategic direction, establish priorities, and ensure rigorous execution to meet customer expectations and business objectives. You will also play a critical role in embedding the Eaton Business System (EBS) and leading change—aligning teams, strengthening engagement, and driving sustainable results across the operation.

Responsibilities

• Lead site-wide operational excellence across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, Inventory, and People (SQDCIP).
• Own overall plant performance, including financials (budgeting, forecasting, cost control) and capital investment governance.
• Execute the annual operating plan, profit plan, and long-term strategic roadmap.
• Drive KPI-led performance management through operating reviews, structured problem solving, and data-driven decision-making.
• Champion Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) and MESH principles, fostering a zero-incident culture with accountability at all levels.
• Ensure compliance with quality systems (ISO) and all regulatory requirements, while leading a zero-defects mindset.
• Lead Lean / Six Sigma continuous improvement initiatives to optimize cost, productivity, capacity, and asset utilization.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, Finance, Sales, and HR to drive aligned execution.
• Lead new product industrialization (NPI) and support SIOP-driven operational planning and execution.
• Build and maintain strong customer and supplier relationships, representing Eaton externally.
• Develop, coach, and retain a high-performing leadership team, building succession and organizational capability.
• Foster an inclusive, engagement-driven culture aligned to Eaton values.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Lean and/or Six Sigma certification.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience.
• Demonstrated experience leading turnaround environments in complex manufacturing operations.
• Experience in a Union environment.
• Strong change leadership in talent development and employee engagement.

Benefits

We know that good benefit programs are important to employees and their families. Eaton provides various Health and Welfare benefits as well as Retirement benefits, and several programs that provide for paid and unpaid time away from work. Specific programs and options available to an employee may depend on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay

The expected annual salary range for this role is $165,000 - $242,000 a year. This role is also eligible for a variable incentive program.

This position is located in Highland, IL (St. Louis metro) and relocation will be offered.