Operations Leader - Manufacturing & Supply Chain

Gurtler Industries; South Holland (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental and vision coverage

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Life and disability insurance

Job summary

A leading specialty chemical solutions provider in South Holland is seeking an Operations Manager - Manufacturing & Supply Chain to enhance operational leadership skills. The role involves supporting procurement, production, and compliance with industry standards while working closely with senior management. Ideal candidates will have 5-8 years of relevant experience, a strong analytical mindset, and a Bachelor's degree. This position offers a competitive salary of $80,000 - $90,000 with benefits, including medical insurance and a 401(k) retirement plan.

Qualifications

• 5–8 years of experience in manufacturing, operations, or supply chain environments.
• Exposure to production environments and operational processes.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Support the leadership of procurement, production, and logistics operations.
• Identify opportunities to improve safety, efficiency, and cost performance.
• Support compliance with industry regulations including OSHA and EPA.

Skills

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Hands-on mindset

Motivation to learn business operations

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience

Job description

Operations Manager – Manufacturing & Supply Chain

Learn the Business. Lead the Operation. Build Your Future.

Gurtler Industries is seeking an Operations Manager – Manufacturing & Supply Chain who is ready to grow into a senior operational leadership role over time.

This position offers a unique opportunity for a motivated operations professional to work closely with our Chief Operations Officer and gain hands-on experience across all aspects of our chemical manufacturing and distribution business.

The individual in this role will learn the operational, supply chain, and business functions of the company while helping improve safety, efficiency, cost performance, and overall operational profitability.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys understanding how operations work, identifying opportunities to improve processes, reduce costs, and build strong, efficient teams.

What You Will Do

Operations Leadership

• Support the leadership of procurement, production, plant maintenance, warehousing, logistics, and order fulfillment operations
• Observe operational processes and identify opportunities to improve safety, efficiency, and cost performance
• Assist in establishing operational metrics and performance standards to support continuous improvement

Supply Chain & Process Improvement

• Assist with raw material sourcing, inventory management, warehousing, and distribution operations
• Evaluate supply chain processes and identify opportunities for improved efficiency, cost savings, and profitability
• Participate in evaluating operational improvements, equipment investments, and process changes

Safety & Regulatory Awareness

• Support compliance with industry regulations including OSHA, EPA, and DOT requirements
• Assist in maintaining safe handling, storage, packaging, and transportation practices for chemical products
• Promote a strong safety-first culture throughout operations

Leadership Development

• Work directly with senior leadership to gain exposure to all aspects of the business
• Help support operational teams and supervisors across the organization
• Learn the operational, financial, and strategic aspects of managing a manufacturing and distribution company

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for someone who is motivated to grow into a larger operational leadership role over time.

Ideal candidates may currently be:

• Production Managers
• Operations Supervisors ready for the next step
• Manufacturing Engineers transitioning into operations leadership
• Supply Chain or Operations professionals with manufacturing experience

Successful candidates typically have:

• 5–8 years of experience in manufacturing, operations, or supply chain environments
• Exposure to production environments and operational processes
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• A desire to learn how businesses operate at a leadership level
• A hands-on mindset and willingness to spend time on the production floor
• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university; or equivalent work experience
• Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship (e.g., H-1B)

Salary Range:

$80,000 – $90,000 annually

This position is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus based on individual and company performance

Benefits Include:

• Medical insurance for employees and eligible dependents
• Dental and vision coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and company holidays
• Life and disability insurance
• Additional voluntary benefits

Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and internal equity.

About Gurtler Industries

Gurtler Industries is a trusted provider of specialty chemical solutions serving commercial and industrial laundry operations across North America. Our organization combines chemical formulation, manufacturing, and distribution expertise to deliver reliable, high-performance solutions to our customers.

We pride ourselves on operational excellence, safety, and strong customer partnerships.

Ready to Grow Your Career?

If you are looking for an opportunity to expand your operational leadership skills, learn directly from experienced leadership, and grow into a larger role over time, we encourage you to apply.

Join Gurtler Industries and take the next step in your operations leadership journey.