Plant Operations Manager is responsible for directing all production, maintenance, and operational activities within the facility. This role ensures safe, efficient, and compliant plant performance while leading cross-functional teams, optimizing processes, and supporting long-term operational strategy. The manager serves as the primary decision-maker for plant operations and plays a key role in regulatory compliance, workforce development, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities- Oversee daily plant operations, including production scheduling, analytical lab, equipment performance, and resource allocation.
- Lead and mentor operations, maintenance, and production teams, ensuring strong performance, accountability, and professional development.
- Ensure full compliance with OSHA, EPA, and other federal, state, and local regulations governing chemical manufacturing.
- Coordinate and implement safety programs, conduct audits, and drive a culture of zero-incident performance.
- Optimize production processes to improve throughput, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
- Manage plant budgets, including labor, materials, maintenance, and capital projects.
- Coordinate preventive and predictive maintenance to maximize equipment reliability and minimize downtime.
- Collaborate with engineering, quality, supply chain, and EHS teams to support operational goals.
- Lead root-cause investigations and implement corrective actions for process deviations or safety incidents.
- Prepare operational reports, KPIs, and performance metrics for senior leadership.
- Support capital improvement projects, including equipment upgrades and process expansions.
Required Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
- 10+ years of leadership experience in chemical manufacturing, petrochemicals, specialty chemicals, or related process industries.
- Proven experience managing plant operations, production teams, and maintenance functions.
- Strong knowledge of process safety management (PSM), hazardous materials handling, and regulatory compliance.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, high-risk environment.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
- Background in automation systems (DCS/PLC) and process optimization tools.
- Experience managing capital projects or plant expansions.
