Plant Manager

USALCO is a leading provider of aluminum-based component products used in water treatment, pulp and paper manufacturing, oil refining catalysts, housing markets, and other sectors. We are committed to excellence in safety, quality, and operational efficiency across all locations.

The Chemical Plant Manager is responsible for overseeing the overall operations of the plant, including the management of manufacturing, maintenance, safety, quality, and personnel functions. This position requires a hands-on, results-driven leader with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, continuous improvement, and maximizing operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will be capable of leading diverse teams, coordinating activities across multiple departments, and ensuring all plant processes meet the highest standards of performance.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Coordination & Supervision:
• Lead and manage all plant functions, including safety, quality control, manufacturing, maintenance, inventory, logistics, and finished goods distribution.
• Supervise, motivate, and develop staff, ensuring alignment with company goals and objectives.
• Plan human resource needs, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation.
• Ensure effective communication across departments (HR, IT, Accounting, Engineering, etc.) to optimize plant operations.
• Safety, Quality & Compliance:
• Prioritize safety in every aspect of the job, including adherence to safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and emergency procedures.
• Implement and drive the continuous improvement culture (including 5S) across all departments.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards such as ISO, NSF, and regulatory requirements.
• Enforce environmental compliance, ensuring the plant meets all environmental regulations.
• Manufacturing & Operations Management:
• Monitor and manage daily plant operations, including production schedules, materials planning, and inventory control.
• Oversee maintenance of plant equipment, troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems, and drive equipment reliability initiatives.
• Coordinate Preventative Maintenance (PM) schedules to minimize downtime and optimize production efficiency.
• Collaborate with management to identify process improvements and implement changes to improve quality, profitability, and productivity.
• Financial Management:
• Prepare and control site operating budgets and capital expenditures.
• Monitor and analyze plant financial performance and seek cost-saving opportunities through process improvements.
• Control inventory levels to ensure sufficient stock of critical spare parts and materials.
• Customer Service & Strategic Input:
• Ensure high levels of customer service by maintaining product quality and on-time delivery standards.
• Liaise with senior management to provide input into the strategic planning and operational activities of the plant.
• Use key performance indicators (KPIs) to track site performance and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Training & Development:
• Provide ongoing training and development opportunities for plant personnel to enhance technical skills and operational knowledge.
• Champion the development of a high-performance culture by empowering employees and promoting teamwork.
• Other Duties:
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of business objectives and goals.
• Oversee the use of the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) for work order management, asset tracking, and inventory control.

Qualifications:

Required:

• High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent)
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing or chemical processing environment, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of safety regulations, quality control, and continuous improvement processes.
• Familiarity with CMMS, ERP systems, and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Proven track record of managing operations and driving improvements in manufacturing efficiency and quality.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and build high-performing teams.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 10+ years of management experience in a chemical or industrial plant environment.
• Experience with ISO, NSF certifications, and environmental compliance.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and financial management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to implement strategic initiatives and lead change within a complex manufacturing environment.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to routinely lift 50 to 75 lbs.
• Must be able to work in physically demanding environments, including confined spaces and elevated platforms.
• Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 70% of the shift).
• Ability to work in various plant conditions, including exposure to chemicals and noisy environments.
• Ability to work in extreme temperature conditions as required by the plant's operational needs.

USALCO is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. As a general policy, USALCO does not offer employment visa sponsorships upon hire or in the future.