Operations Manager

Operations Manager

Solenis is a leading global producer of specialty chemicals focused on delivering sustainable solutions for water-intensive industries, including consumer, industrial, institutional, food and beverage, and pool and spa water markets. Owned by Platinum Equity, the company's product portfolio includes a broad array of water treatment chemistries, process aids, functional additives, and cleaners and disinfectants, as well as state-of-the-art monitoring and control systems. These technologies are used by customers to improve operational efficiencies, enhance product quality, protect plant assets, minimize environmental impact, and create cleaner and safer environments.

The Operations Manager reports to the Plant Manager and is responsible for the following:

• Serve as a role model and advocate for OSHA PSM regulations and compliance with EPA, DOT, and City of Chicopee standards.
• Collaborate closely with the production planning department.
• Supervise hourly team members across manufacturing operations, maintenance, and shipping & receiving to ensure safe and high-quality production.
• Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Provide coaching and oversee employee training and development.
• Evaluate team performance, monitor progress, and align departmental objectives with overall Solenis goals.
• Communicate and ensure adherence to all plant policies and procedures; maintain accurate records.
• Address and help resolve employee concerns or workplace issues.
• Lead investigations into production or quality issues and implement corrective actions.
• Support the Plant Manager in reconciling monthly expenditures with accounting.
• Ensure capital projects align with operational and workforce needs.
• Develop, lead, and execute plans for continuous improvement in EHS, productivity, and growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure departmental performance in areas including Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS), Responsible Care, and ISO 9001:2015 certification.
• Provide direct supervision to the department team, including managing performance and delivering feedback.
• Oversee cost management and identify opportunities for efficiency and cost reduction to meet or exceed budget targets.
• Own departmental customer satisfaction metrics, ensuring improvements in on-time-in-full performance and resolving complaints through root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Promote and support a culture of innovation and continuous growth.
• Assist the Plant Manager with overall site performance responsibilities.
• Lead or facilitate department participation in capital project implementation.
• Oversee the departmental training program and strategic development initiatives.

Required Skills:

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering or another applicable technical field
• 5+ years' experience of chemical operations in a manufacturing environment
• Must have knowledge of manufacturing operations, and equipment usage.
• Must possess good written and oral communication skills and be able to work with all levels of management.
• Must provide development, coaching, and counseling to employees
• Proven leadership experience
• Computer skills including SAP or similar program highly preferred
• Knowledge of safe work practices, environmental and safety rules and regulations
• Must be detailed oriented and able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to effectively interact with R&D and plant personnel, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), and internal functional groups & teams
• Basic skills in English (writing and speaking)
• Capacity and willingness to both lead a team and be a team member as an individual contributor
• Capable of performing job functions & responsibilities with minimal oversite by the Plant Manager

Preferred Requirements:

• 7+ years supervisory experience of operations in a chemical manufacturing environment
• Training and black belt leadership experience in Lean and Six Sigma methodologies
• Experience with developing and managing an annual budget
• Automation expertise, including PLCs and DCS systems
• Prior work experience within a union environment
• Prior work experience in a chemical operations environment under Process Safety Management and/or Responsible Care programs

We understand that candidates will not meet every single desired qualification. If your experience looks a little different from what we've identified and you think you can bring value to the role, we'd love to learn more about you.

At Solenis, we understand that our greatest asset is our people. That is why we offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits which include medical, dental, vision & 401K, and numerous opportunities for professional growth and development. So, if you are interested in working for a world-class company and enjoy solving complex challenges, whether in the lab or the field, consider joining our team.

Solenis is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer, including Minorities / Women/ Veterans / Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Should you require assistance in applying to this opportunity, please reach out to Solenis Talent Acquisition.

The expected compensation range for this position is between $91,800.00 and $153,100.00 plus discretionary bonuses. The exact compensation may vary based on your skills, experience and other factors permitted by law.