Plant Manager - Advanced Materials / Specialty Chemical Manufacturing

Job Description

Job Description

Plant Manager

Location: DeQuincy, Louisiana (Lake Charles area)

Position Type: Full-Time, Monday–Friday (with 24/7 on-call availability as needed)

Industry: Advanced Materials / Specialty Chemical Manufacturing

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Plant Manager to oversee all daily operations of a leading specialty materials manufacturing facility in DeQuincy, LA. This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for driving safety, quality, and regulatory compliance while optimizing productivity and efficiency.

The ideal candidate brings a strong background in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, proven experience in lean manufacturing, and solid financial acumen (including P&L oversight). You will manage a 3-shift, 5-day operation and lead a robust site team to streamline processes, upgrade equipment, and foster a continuous improvement culture.

Structure & Reporting Relationships

• Reports to: Senior Vice President of Operations
• Direct Reports: Assistant Plant Manager, Office Manager, Foreman, Maintenance Supervisor, EHS Manager, Quality Manager, Shipping & Receiving Manager, and Process Engineer.
• Indirect Reports: Shipping Foreman, Production Shift Foreman, General Foreman, and Material Handler Lead.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Operations & Productivity: Oversee day-to-day operations of the plant, minimizing costs and maximizing productivity to drive profitability.
• Safety & Compliance: Continuously improve and grow the safety culture on a journey to zero workplace injuries. Ensure all federal, state, and local regulatory requirements are strictly met.
• Leadership & Development: Mentor and develop departmental managers by providing clear direction, support, and training.
• Communication: Maintain open communication with corporate management regarding plant status, quality metrics, and operational performance.
• Technical & Project Oversight: Maintain a working understanding of all plant equipment and processes; oversee hired contractors and capital improvement projects.
• Culture & Alignment: Ensure company policies are implemented effectively while instilling a collaborative, customer-focused vision across all departments.

Experience & Skills Required

• Experience: 10+ years of Plant Management experience, preferably within carbon, graphite, powder-based advanced materials, or specialty chemical industries.
• Education: College or graduate-level degree in Engineering (Chemical or Mechanical preferred).
• Leadership Style: Mature leadership presence with a "hands-on" approach that builds trust, motivates employees, and manages change effectively.
• Financial Acumen: Previous experience managing budgets, expense management, and a strong understanding of financial/accounting practices.
• Methodology: Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes with the ability to institute lean manufacturing principles (e.g., Lean Six Sigma).
• Communication: Excellent professional written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to build consensus across all levels.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Must be available during non-work hours as needed (evenings, weekends, holidays) and willing to travel overnight when required.
• Ability to tolerate industrial environmental factors (cold, heat, dirt, etc.).
• Ability to tolerate prolonged standing and walking, lift up to 50 lbs, and climb ladders/stairways.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $180,000 – $195,000 per year (Final compensation is calculated based on variable factors on experience, skillset, and qualifications).
• Additional Compensation: Competitive incentive plan based on EBITDA + comprehensive benefits package.

How to Apply

This search is being managed exclusively by our recruiting agency. To apply or request more information, please submit your resume directly to this link.