Operations Manager

The Employee Connect; Ottawa (IL); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company matching

Paid time off and holiday pay

Life and disability insurance

Professional development programs

Employee wellness initiatives

Job summary

A leading global performance materials company is seeking an Operations Supervisor to guide and manage their production workforce in Ottawa, Illinois. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or significant experience in supervision, alongside strong leadership and interpersonal skills. This role offers a competitive salary with a solid benefits package and the opportunity to work in a collaborative environment focused on operational excellence. Interested candidates should apply directly for consideration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, or process engineering, or significant experience in operations supervision.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word.
• Experience with operations planning programs, such as JD Edwards.
• Strong leadership skills and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse teams.

Responsibilities

• Organize, direct, and support hourly production staff to achieve safety, quality, and operational goals.
• Oversee the proper use of stationary and mobile equipment in line with best practices.
• Work closely with maintenance teams to develop operational schedules.
• Assist in developing and executing long-term operational plans.
• Implement and maintain training programs for quality and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership skills

Interpersonal skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Operations planning programs experience

Strong problem-solving abilities

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or process engineering

Tools

Microsoft Excel

JD Edwards

Job description

Job Title: Operations Supervisor
Location: Ottawa, Illinois
Pay: $130,000 - $190,000 (Exact compensation will depend on experience)
Work Type: Onsite | Hybrid

Job Description

Our client, a leading global performance materials company, is seeking a skilled Operations Supervisor to guide and manage their production workforce at their Ottawa, Illinois facility. With over 124 years of experience, our client specializes in mining, processing, logistics, and materials science, delivering more than 800 diversified products to various industries. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the continued growth of an established industry leader.

Responsibilities

As an Operations Supervisor, you will:

• Guide and Lead the Workforce: Organize, direct, and support hourly production staff to achieve safety, quality, and operational goals.

• Ensure Equipment Operation: Oversee the proper use of stationary and mobile equipment in line with best practices.

• Plan and Schedule Operations: Work closely with maintenance teams to develop operational schedules that meet sales and production requirements.

• Project and Budget Management: Assist in developing and executing long‑term operational plans, including budgeting and special projects.

• Quality and Safety Training: Implement and maintain training programs focused on quality, safety, environmental, and health standards, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Continuous Improvement: Identify and lead initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.

• Administrative Duties: Handle planning, scheduling, reporting, and other administrative tasks to support operational success.

• Collaboration: Coordinate with corporate engineering teams to ensure successful execution of production plans.

• Additional Tasks: Perform other duties as assigned to support plant operations.

Requirements Summary

Must Haves:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, or process engineering, or significant experience in operations supervision.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word.

• Experience with operations planning programs, such as JD Edwards.

• Strong leadership skills and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

• Excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse teams and personalities.

Nice‑to‑Have Skills:

• Background in manufacturing or similar industries.

• Engineering experience in a production environment.

• Familiarity with project management tools and techniques.

• Strong problem‑solving abilities with a focus on continuous improvement.

Compensation and Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary based on experience and qualifications. The benefits package includes:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching.

• Paid time off and holiday pay.

• Life and disability insurance.

• Professional development and educational assistance programs.

• Employee wellness and lifestyle initiatives.

Company Culture

Our client takes pride in fostering a collaborative environment built on integrity and innovation. With a rich history spanning over a century, they are dedicated to creating a workplace where employees thrive and contribute to meaningful projects. Joining this team means becoming part of a supportive culture focused on professional development, safety, and operational excellence.

Next Steps

Interested candidates should apply directly with us. Our recruitment team will review your application, and if selected, we will reach out to schedule a phone interview to learn more about your experience and career goals.