Operations Manager

Job Description

We are seeking a highly driven and accountable Operations Manager to join our team at our Wilmington, NC manufacturing facility. In this key leadership role, you will report directly to the Plant Manager and be responsible for safe, reliable, and on‑plan production execution across the site.

This role is ideal for an experienced operations leader who thrives on ownership of results, disciplined execution, and leading teams through structured accountability systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Own site‑wide production performance, including safety, quality, output, schedule adherence, and daily execution.
• Lead all production execution activities, including shift staffing, coverage, and coordination.
• Serve as the final escalation point for operational issues, driving timely resolution and clear communication.
• Own Tier 2 and Tier 3 meeting effectiveness, ensuring disciplined escalation, problem solving, and follow‑through.
• Lead, coach, and develop the Production Superintendent and front‑line operations leadership.
• Translate site priorities into executable daily and weekly production plans.
• Partner with Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, Supply Chain, and EHS to ensure aligned execution.
• Identify execution gaps and drive corrective actions to improve operational stability and performance.
• Reinforce standard work, expectations, and accountability across all shifts.

Fostering a culture where safety is a core value, proactively identifying and mitigating risks, and modeling strong operational discipline through visible leadership behaviors.

What This Role Does NOT Own

• Engineering standards or technical design
• MOC technical approval
• Maintenance strategy or PM ownership
• Capital scope definition or FEL decisions
• Project scheduling or construction execution

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering
• 5+ years of manufacturing operations experience (chemical or process manufacturing preferred)
• 3+ years of leadership experience managing production teams
• Strong understanding of Tiered Management Systems and operational KPIs
• Experience operating in a PSM‑regulated manufacturing environment preferred
• Proven ability to lead through accountability, not proximity

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering

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Why Join Us?

• Own operational results at a critical manufacturing site with clear accountability
• Partner closely with Engineering and Maintenance in a well‑defined operating model
• Work for a global leader in chemical manufacturing
• Opportunity to drive visible improvements in safety, performance, and execution discipline

How to Apply: If you are an operations leader who values clarity, accountability, and results‑driven execution, we encourage you to apply.

Apply today to join Stepan Company and help lead the Wilmington site forward!

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.