Operations Manager

NEXPERA; Darrow (LA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Holidays & sick leave

Parental leave

Health, dental, vision insurance

401(k) plan with company match

Performance-based compensation

Job summary

NEXPERA in Louisiana seeks an Operations Manager to lead the Burnside sulfuric acid facility, driving on-time production, plant reliability, and cost efficiency while maintaining safety standards.

Ideal candidates have a chemical or mechanical engineering background with 10+ years in process manufacturing and strong leadership, communication, and continuous‑improvement skills to guide supervisors and teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in chemical/mechanical engineering or related technical field.
• 10+ years in chemical or continuous-process manufacturing operations.
• 3+ years in an operations supervisory role.

Responsibilities

• Lead operations to meet safety, reliability and cost objectives.
• Direct sulfuric acid production in line with safety procedures.
• Ensure regulatory compliance (OSHA PSM, RMP, DOT).
• Develop talent and plan budget for the department.
• Coordinate with support functions for smooth workflow.
• Evaluate new processes and systems to improve performance.
• Provide clear communication and resolve conflicts.
• Mentor supervisors and frontline personnel.

Skills

Safety leadership

Team leadership

Communication

Continuous improvement

Process control

Budgeting

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Nexperaleads the way in sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide regeneration, offering a comprehensive range of products and services that optimize processes, minimize environmental impact, and allow our partners to focus on their core operations. With the industry’s largest facility network, we ensure unmatched reliability and drive innovation across the industrial landscape. In addition, we provide an unmatched array of sulfur-based chemicals and related services to a diverse set of industries.

Position Purpose

Nexpera's OperationsManager will manage, direct, and implement the operations objectives of the Burnside, Louisiana facility to ensure the safe, reliable, and cost-effective production of sulfuric acid. In the short term, the position is accountable for on-time production, plant reliability, operating efficiency, and product quality. Over the longer term, the Operations Manager formulates, plans, and implements operating strategies in alignment with the objectives of the Company and its customers. The position is accountable for the overall performance of the operations department and for the development of its supervisory and operating personnel.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Manage the operations function in support of business growth, including the introduction of new operating systems and modifications to existing systems and components, while meeting facility financial objectives, ensuring the safety of operations and employees, and maintaining on-time production and product quality.
• Direct the production of sulfuric acid in accordance with all established safety, health, and environmental procedures, and ensure that all personnel perform their work in compliance with those procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, including OSHA Process Safety Management (29 CFR 1910.119), the EPA Risk Management Program, and U.S. Department of Transportation requirements for the handling of hazardous materials.
• Assess and develop the supervisory and operator talent and skill base in order to achieve growth objectives and to meet market needs such as reduced cost, efficient production cycle times, and reliable delivery.
• Research, plan, target, and control reductions in operating costs; achieve annual financial objectives; and prepare, control, and forecast the departmental budget.
• Coordinate efforts among support departments within the facility to ensure a smooth workflow and cost-efficient output through effective interdepartmental communication and support.
• Provide leadership in the evaluation and implementation of new processes and systems technology in order to meet operating objectives.
• Enhance productivity through effective written and verbal communication throughout the organization; keep supervisors apprised of scheduling, production capability, and problem areas; maintain a productive working rapport with employees at all levels; and resolve departmental conflicts.
• Provide work direction, orientation, training, and work review to assigned personnel, and project a positive, professional image to employees, customers, the industry, and the community served by the Company.

Qualifications

• Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • A Master's degree in engineering or an M.B.A. is preferred.
• Experience
  • A minimum of ten (10) years of experience in chemical or continuous-process manufacturing operations, including knowledge of process operations, heat transfer, thermodynamics, and safety procedures. Direct experience with sulfuric acid production is strongly preferred.
  • A minimum of three (3) years of experience in an industrial environment as an operations supervisor or managing supervisors of non-exempt operations employees
• Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
  • A demonstrated commitment to safety and to delivering high-quality work that meets the needs of internal and external customers.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex concepts to all levels of the organization, from operating personnel to senior leadership.
  • Strong leadership skills and the ability to contribute effectively within a dynamic, team-oriented environment.
  • The ability to receive and act on constructive feedback and to promote a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Working knowledge of process control systems, production metrics, and budgeting and cost-control practices.
  • Formal training in OSHA Process Safety Management, general OSHA standards, or RCRA is preferred.
• Work is performed on-site at an active sulfuric acid manufacturing facility and requires moving throughout the plant, climbing stairs and ladders, and standing or walking for extended periods.
• The employee may be exposed to chemicals, noise, heat, and other conditions typical of a chemical manufacturing environment, and is required to wear all designated personal protective equipment (PPE) and to adhere to all safety procedures at all times.
• The position may require availability outside of standard business hours, including occasional on-call and off-shift support, to address operational needs.
• Travel is minimal, typically less than ten percent (10%).

NEXPERA’s comprehensive benefits package includes paid time off policies, including vacation, sick leave, 12 holidays per year, and paid parental leave for all employees; as well as health, dental, vision, and long and short-term disability insurance. In addition, employees are also entitled to participate in an employer sponsored 401(k) plan, to save for retirement. Additionally, Chemical Operators are eligible for the annual Local Performance-Based Compensation program.

Additional information
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer! All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.