
This role has a moderate level of AI exposure. AI can enhance efficiency for some tasks, but this job still relies on human skills and decision-making.
Explore all careersA Plant Manager oversees manufacturing operations, ensuring production meets schedules and quality standards while managing budgets and staff.
Get qualified to work as a Plant Manager with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
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In Australia, a full time Plant Manager generally earns $2,769 per week ($143,988 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
The number of people working in this job role has dropped in recent years. There are currently 32,000 people employed as a Plant Manager in Australia compared to 35,800 five years ago. Plant Managers may find work across all regions of Australia, particularly larger towns and cities where plant facilities are located.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If you’re planning a career as a Plant Manager, consider enrolling in a Diploma of Process Plant Technology. This course covers leadership and administrative skills and allows you to choose electives such as contractor management, incident response and plant shutdown. An Advanced Diploma of Process Plant Technology would also be appropriate.
A Plant Manager oversees daily operations at a manufacturing facility. You might ensure production schedules are met and make sure safety and compliance standards are adhered to. Plant Managers might check production is meeting quality standards and resolve any issues that occur during the manufacturing process. You might also attend to issues such as budgeting and scheduled maintenance.
Plant Managers should be organised and able to handle several tasks at one time. You’ll need to have good leadership skills and be able to communicate well with all members of your organisation. Plant Managers must be able to manage budgets, deadlines and staffing issues.