Operations Manager

Job DescriptionWe are seeking a highly driven and accountable Operations Manager to join our team at our Wilmington, NC manufacturing facility. In this key leadership role, you will report directly to the Plant Manager and be responsible for safe, reliable, and on‑plan production execution across the site.This role is ideal for an experienced operations leader who thrives on ownership of results, disciplined execution, and leading teams through structured accountability systems.Key Responsibilities:Own site‑wide production performance, including safety, quality, output, schedule adherence, and daily execution.Lead all production execution activities, including shift staffing, coverage, and coordination.Serve as the final escalation point for operational issues, driving timely resolution and clear communication.Own Tier 2 and Tier 3 meeting effectiveness, ensuring disciplined escalation, problem solving, and follow‑through.Lead, coach, and develop the Production Superintendent and front‑line operations leadership.Translate site priorities into executable daily and weekly production plans.Partner with Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, Supply Chain, and EHS to ensure aligned execution.Identify execution gaps and drive corrective actions to improve operational stability and performance.Reinforce standard work, expectations, and accountability across all shifts.Fostering a culture where safety is a core value, proactively identifying and mitigating risks, and modeling strong operational discipline through visible leadership behaviors.What This Role Does NOT OwnEngineering standards or technical designMOC technical approvalMaintenance strategy or PM ownershipCapital scope definition or FEL decisionsProject scheduling or construction executionQualificationsBachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering 5+ years of manufacturing operations experience (chemical or process manufacturing preferred) 3+ years of leadership experience managing production teams Strong understanding of Tiered Management Systems and operational KPIs Experience operating in a PSM‑regulated manufacturing environment preferred Proven ability to lead through accountability, not proximityEducationBachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering#LI-ONSITE #LI-RV1Why Join Us?Own operational results at a critical manufacturing site with clear accountabilityPartner closely with Engineering and Maintenance in a well‑defined operating modelWork for a global leader in chemical manufacturingOpportunity to drive visible improvements in safety, performance, and execution disciplineHow to Apply: If you are an operations leader who values clarity, accountability, and results‑driven execution, we encourage you to apply.Apply today to join Stepan Company and help lead the Wilmington site forward!Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.Established in 1932, Stepan Company is a major manufacturer of basic and intermediate chemicals including surfactants, polymers, as well as specialty ingredients that go into consumer, household, and institutional products such as laundry detergents, shampoos, and surface cleaners. Stepan Company currently has 19 global manufacturing locations and over 2,400 employees. We have a strong record of growth. Our growth allows us to provide meaningful career opportunities and stability to our team members. We have big goals at Stepan and know every team member will be crucial to achieving our objectives. Regardless of function, we are looking for team members who bring with them a growth mindset, an entrepreneurial spirit, and the ability to thrive in an evolving environment.We celebrate diversity at Stepan and are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.