PVCO Operations Manager, Pipe & Fittings - Wichita Falls, TX

Overview Westlake Pipe & Fittings, a division of Westlake (NYSE: WLK), is one of North America’s largest manufacturers of PVC pipe and fittings. With 23 manufacturing and distribution facilities, we deliver innovative piping solutions across municipal, plumbing, irrigation, and specialty markets — including our industry-leading Certa-Lok® restrained joint systems. We foster a collaborative culture grounded in safety, innovation, operational excellence, and career growth. Why Join Westlake Benefits effective Day One Medical, Dental, Vision 401(k) with Company Match Annual Retirement Contribution (ARC) Life & AD&D Insurance Paid Vacation Tuition Assistance Program Fitness Reimbursement Program Career Growth & Advancement Opportunities About The Role Westlake Pipe & Fittings is seeking a highly driven PVCO Operations Manager to lead our startup PVCO manufacturing operations at our Wichita Falls, TX facility. This is a high-visibility leadership role responsible for building and leading operations from the ground up while driving plant performance, operational efficiency, safety, quality, and team development as the facility ramps up production. This role requires a strong hands-on leader with proven extrusion manufacturing experience who thrives in a fast-paced startup environment. During the early stages of plant ramp-up, the Operations Manager is expected to maintain a strong presence on the production floor, spending significant time walking the floor (up to 6–10 hours per day) to support teams, resolve operational challenges, and drive performance. You will play a pivotal role in rapidly establishing stable, efficient production , optimizing processes, and reinforcing a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate brings a strong sense of urgency, operational discipline, and the ability to navigate the demands of a startup environment while building high-performing teams and delivering results. What You’ll Do Lead daily plant operations to achieve safety, quality, service, and cost objectives Drive operational excellence across production, maintenance, and quality functions Develop and execute short- and long-term operating and maintenance strategies Establish performance standards and ensure compliance with company policies and procedures Partner with cross-functional teams to improve productivity, efficiency, and product quality Analyze production and operational data to identify trends and resolve performance gaps Lead root cause analysis (RCA) and implement corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) Optimize staffing, training, and workforce development initiatives Oversee inventory management for raw materials, WIP, and finished goods Support capital projects, equipment upgrades, and process improvements Reinforce a strong safety-first culture and regulatory compliance Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required (Engineering or Technical discipline preferred) 5–7 years of supervisory/management experience in a 24/7 manufacturing environment Extrusion manufacturing experience is a plus Proven ability to lead teams and drive plant performance Strong operational, analytical, and problem-solving skills Experience with Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies Working knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC) Mechanical/technical aptitude with ability to partner effectively with Engineering & Maintenance Effective communicator with ability to influence across all organizational levels Proactive, solutions-oriented, and results-focused leadership style Work Environment This role operates across office and manufacturing plant environments. Plant areas may involve elevated noise levels and require appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toe footwear, and other required safety equipment. Physical Demands While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, use hands, reach, and communicate effectively. Occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, and light lifting may be required. Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate. Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation. #J-18808-Ljbffr