Operations Manager

Operations Manager – Role Overview

Based on Internal Notes / Hiring Manager Insight

• The company processes Vanadium , which is a waste byproduct from crude oil. They clean and refine it, then repurpose it for the fracking and steel industries through several different production methods.
• The environment is industrial and hands-on — candidates should expect a dirty manufacturing environment working with raw materials . The facility is not temperature controlled , so comfort with that type of environment is important.
• This role will have approximately 8–9 direct reports , and a key expectation is to develop these individuals so they can eventually grow into leadership roles similar to this one .
• Safety is a major priority across the operation.
• The team culture is close-knit, hardworking, and collaborative .
• The facility is non-union .
• Compensation
• Base salary typically $100K–$150K
• 10–20% bonus
• Sign-on bonuses and relocation packages available in some cases
• PTO can be negotiated
• The company places a high emphasis on confidentiality due to the proprietary nature of their processing methods.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and enforce compliance with safety and environmental regulations , promoting a strong safety culture across the plant.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA and EPA regulations while ensuring equipment, facilities, and processes meet industry standards.
• Develop production schedules and labor requirements to achieve operational targets.
• Monitor and analyze production volume, cost, quality, equipment maintenance, and labor utilization to optimize plant performance.
• Identify and resolve operational non-conformances , implementing corrective actions when necessary.
• Track and report critical operational KPIs to support company financial goals.
• Lead and develop Operations Leads and Supervisors , including performance management and coaching.
• Promote positive employee relations and engagement across operational teams.
• Investigate and resolve employee issues in partnership with HR and plant leadership.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities in the Melt Shop and Roaster areas.
• Collaborate with engineering and purchasing teams to execute capital projects and evaluate suppliers .
• Apply Lean manufacturing principles to improve processes, systems, equipment, and workforce productivity.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering or a related mechanical/industrial field preferred.
• 7–10 years of operational leadership experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Industry experience in melt shop, foundry, steel, or similar heavy manufacturing environments preferred.
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills .
• Proven ability to drive continuous improvement and apply Lean principles .
• Strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving ability, and attention to detail .
• Ability to adapt to change and lead teams through operational improvements .
• Knowledge of OSHA, EPA regulations, and relevant industry codes .