Plant Superintendent

4142 Evonik Corporation_4142; Blair (NE); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Evonik Corporation in Blair, NE, seeks a Downstream Plant Manager to oversee the safe, efficient operation of Biolys, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Utilities plants. You will drive production, quality, and reliability while leading cross-functional teams to meet safety, regulatory, and budget targets.

The role requires a strong leadership background in manufacturing, hands-on process optimization, and a proven track record of delivering capital projects and workforce development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Engineering, Biotechnology, or related science.
• 5–10 years of leadership experience in manufacturing.
• Experience driving operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Knowledge of manufacturing operations, engineering processes, and safety and environmental regulations.
• Experience leading teams, managing budgets, and supporting capital projects.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations for Biolys, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Utilities plants.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards, including OSHA requirements.
• Oversee production performance, product quality, scheduling, and cost management.
• Lead process optimization and continuous improvement initiatives to improve efficiency and reduce downtime.
• Coordinate maintenance activities and support capital improvement projects.
• Develop department budgets and manage operating expenses.
• Hire, train, coach, and develop operations personnel.
• Partner with Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, Logistics, Fermentation, and other site teams to support plant operations and achieve production goals.

Skills

Leadership

Manufacturing operations

Budget management

Process optimization

Safety & regulatory compliance

Team development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Engineering, Biotechnology, or related science

Job description

What we offer Explore a world of opportunities with us. Look ahead with us and help shape innovative solutions to make our world more sustainable and life healthier, more vibrant and more comfortable. At Evonik, you have the chance to explore, thrive, and grow alongside 33,000 colleagues. Among attractive career paths and high-quality development programs, we not only offer performance-based remuneration and occupational health benefits but also hybrid and flexible working environments. Bring your fresh perspective, develop your strengths, break out your mold, and find a career that fits your dreams with us.

The Downstream Plant Manager is responsible for overseeing the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the Biolys, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Utilities plants. This role is accountable for production, quality, safety, regulatory compliance, employee development, budgeting, and continuous improvement initiatives. The position works closely with cross-functional teams to optimize plant performance, maintain equipment reliability, and ensure products are delivered safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage daily operations for the Biolys, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Utilities plants.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards, including OSHA requirements.
• Oversee production performance, product quality, scheduling, and cost management.
• Lead process optimization and continuous improvement initiatives to improve efficiency and reduce downtime.
• Coordinate maintenance activities and support capital improvement projects.
• Develop department budgets and manage operating expenses.
• Hire, train, coach, and develop operations personnel.
• Partner with Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, Logistics, Fermentation, and other site teams to support plant operations and achieve production goals.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related science field.
• 5-10 years of leadership experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience driving operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Knowledge of manufacturing operations, engineering processes, and safety and environmental regulations.
• Experience leading teams, managing budgets, and supporting capital projects.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

The Evonik Group adopts an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) approach.

Candidates are assessed based on their educational qualifications, experience, job competencies and potential and shall not be discriminated against on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, gender, religion, nationality, disability or sexual orientation or other classifications protected by local, state, or provincial regulations.

This is your opportunity to join a thriving global organization that combines cutting-edge science, technology and engineering with world-class business services to create solutions that answer real-world problems. If you join us, we’ll expect you to take ownership of your work, team up with other great minds, and add your name to creations that make a positive difference for generations. As one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals operating in more than 100 countries with over 32,000 employees, we need your diversity of thought to make us better. In return for your passion, initiative and creativity, you’ll enjoy opportunities to improve and to be respected for your contribution.