Operations Manager

Company Description

Columbia River Nitrogen LLC is a leading manufacturer of high-quality nitrogen-based fertilizers and chemical products serving agricultural and industrial clients across the United States. The facility is strategically located in Deer Island, Oregon, with direct river access that supports efficient and reliable distribution. The company focuses on performance-driven solutions that help customers optimize yields, improve process efficiency, and meet operational goals.

Team members work in a safety-focused, production-oriented environment where continuous improvement and responsible chemical manufacturing are core priorities.

Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Industrial Technology, or a related field required.

Advanced degree preferred.

8-15 years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience.

Minimum of 5 years managing operations within a chemical, petrochemical, pulp and paper, industrial processing, or similar manufacturing environment.

Experience with Process Safety Management (PSM) programs strongly preferred.

• Strong understanding of chemical manufacturing processes and industrial plant operations.
• Knowledge of OSHA, EPA, environmental regulations, and process safety requirements.
• Demonstrated leadership and team development capabilities.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Experience utilizing ERP systems and production management software.
• Strong financial and business acumen.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to build effective relationships across all levels of the organization.

• Lead and direct all plant manufacturing operations to achieve production, safety, quality, and cost objectives.
• Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with facility and corporate goals.
• Ensure reliable and efficient operation of production units and support systems.
• Monitor plant performance and implement corrective actions to achieve key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Oversee daily production activities and ensure adherence to established schedules.
• Maximize equipment utilization and operational efficiency.
• Manage production resources, staffing levels, and operational priorities.
• Identify and eliminate bottlenecks impacting production output.

• Champion a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, DEQ, PSM, RMP, and company standards.
• Ensure all operations are conducted in accordance with applicable environmental permits and regulations.
• Lead incident investigations and corrective action implementation.
• Support emergency response planning and operational readiness initiatives.

• Drive continuous improvement programs focused on safety, throughput, cost reduction, quality, and reliability.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Operational Excellence, or similar methodologies.
• Analyze production data to identify trends and opportunities for process optimization.
• Support technology improvements and process modernization initiatives.

• Provide leadership, coaching, mentoring, and performance management for engineers, supervisors and operational personnel.
• Establish clear expectations and accountability throughout the organization.
• Foster a culture of employee engagement, teamwork, and continuous learning.
• Support workforce planning, succession planning, and talent development efforts.

• Partner with Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, EHS, and Human Resources to achieve business objectives.
• Support capital projects, plant expansions, and major maintenance shutdowns.
• Participate in strategic planning and budget development activities.

• Manage operational budgets and control manufacturing costs.
• Monitor labor, utility, raw material, and maintenance expenditures.
• Identify opportunities to improve profitability while maintaining safety and quality standards.
• Prepare operational reports and present performance metrics to leadership.

• Directly supervises Production/Shipping Supervisors, Engineers, and other operations personnel as assigned.
• Responsible for employee performance management, disciplinary actions, hiring recommendations, and professional development.
• Ensures compliance with company policies and collective bargaining agreements