Plant Operations Manager

Located in Pakenham, F1 Steel offers an extensive range of structural steel products, encompassing steel angles, beams, columns, sheets, plates, tubing, and pipes including installations. Our commitment to quality and innovation is unwavering, making us a pivotal force in the industry. Part of key management team Long term career pathway Position Description We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic Plant Operations Manager to lead the day‑to‑day and long‑term operations of our steel fabrication business for domestic and commercial construction. The role covers the full operational spectrum, including estimation, design coordination, site and workshop issue resolution, office job management, production oversight, and customer liaison. The successful candidate will be instrumental in ensuring smooth and efficient operations, maintaining high‑quality standards, driving continuous improvement, and supporting business development. Responsibilities Operational Management Oversee end‑to‑end operations including production planning, workflow scheduling, and task allocation based on team capability. Monitor business operations to achieve operational KPIs and develop streamlined systems and processes. Manage resource allocation, stock levels, and inventory control to support productivity and avoid shortages/overstocking. Ensure accurate recording and timely dispatch of all incoming and outgoing goods. Maintain compliance with workplace health and safety regulations across both workshop and site activities. Conduct regular inspections to uphold quality standards and customer requirements. Provide project and operational status updates to the Managing Director/Owner. Business Development Build relationships with suppliers and contractors to meet business targets. Develop and maintain strong customer relationships by nurturing existing clients, acquiring new business, and ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction. Build capacity to expand the steel business in residential and commercial spaces. Collaborate with the business development and marketing manager to develop a business growth plan. Drive business growth and advocate the business branding in the industry. Liaise with multiple stakeholders and builders to achieve business outcomes. Manage and lead estimating team. Prepare accurate estimates, quotations, and budgets for structural steel projects. Conduct take‑offs from engineering and architectural drawings. Collaborate with sales and business development teams to ensure estimates are competitive and aligned with business goals. Monitor project cost performance against budgets and forecasts. Manage office job administration including job files, scheduling, and reporting. Act as the key liaison between engineering/design teams, site teams, and clients. Review and interpret structural and architectural drawings, ensuring alignment with fabrication requirements. Identify and resolve design‑related issues early to prevent cost and schedule overruns. Ensure approved drawings are effectively communicated and executed across workshop and site teams. Oversee installation teams at domestic and commercial sites. Resolve site issues promptly, coordinating with site supervisors, builders, and subcontractors. Conduct site inspections and measurements as required to validate design and fabrication. Ensure site safety standards and compliance are met at all times. Support the implementation of robust business systems, policies and procedures across estimating, production, scheduling and finance. Develop a strong production manual and methodology for steel fabrication and installation. Assess new product and process opportunities (cassette flooring, robotics, modular construction, etc.). Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimise cost, quality, and delivery. Key Performance Indicators Production Efficiency – At least 95% of projects completed within agreed timeframes; overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) maintained at 85% or above. Quality Control – Minimum of 98% of products to pass first inspection; defects limited to no more than 2% per unit produced. Estimation and Job Management – Project estimates to be accurate within a 5% variance of actual costs; job quotations issued within five business days of request. Cost Management – Production costs to remain within 5% of budgeted figures; cost per unit produced to be maintained within approved benchmarks. Revenue Growth – Year‑on‑year business revenue to increase by a minimum of 10%; at least 20% of revenue to be generated from new business. Health and Safety – Zero notifiable incidents or accidents; full compliance with all workplace health and safety regulations and audit requirements. Customer Satisfaction – Average customer satisfaction rating of 8/10 or higher; minimum of 95% of projects completed without rework or formal complaints. Supplier Relationship Management – At least 90% of suppliers delivering on time and meeting quality standards; 95% of preferred suppliers achieving agreed KPIs. Employee Engagement – Employee satisfaction survey scores of 80% or higher; annual voluntary turnover rate maintained at 10% or below. Essential Skills and Experiences Proven management experience in steel fabrication, construction, or manufacturing. Strong estimation and cost planning experience in steel or related industries. Ability to interpret and apply structural and architectural drawings. Knowledge of welding and fabrication safety standards. Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills, particularly in site and production contexts. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills. Proficiency in leading multi‑disciplinary teams. Strong organisational and time‑management skills with attention to detail. Welding certificate preferred (ability to certify works and techniques). Offers and Benefits Competitive salary package and comprehensive benefits. Join an emerging company with limitless growth potential. Integral role within the key operations management team. Enjoy all‑encompassing support for success in your role. Applications To apply for this position, please click "Apply for this job". #J-18808-Ljbffr