Operations Manager (Chemical Engineer)

We are launching a new industrial oil recycling and processing operation and are seeking a highly experienced Mechanical Engineer with extensive leadership background to serve as Operations Manager and build this facility from the ground up.This is not a lab role.This is not a junior engineer position.This is a leadership role responsible for plant design oversight, operational execution, regulatory compliance, production efficiency, team management, and profitability.You will own the operation.Core ResponsibilitiesOperational LeadershipOversee full plant operations including used oil intake, processing, treatment, storage, and outbound distributionDevelop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)Build and lead plant staff (operators, maintenance, lab techs, logistics)Establish KPIs for throughput, yield, safety, and marginDrive continuous improvement initiativesEngineering & Process ManagementDesign, optimize, and scale oil re-refining processesMonitor chemical treatment, separation, filtration, distillation, and stabilization systemsManage process control systems and production data analysisIdentify and eliminate bottlenecksReduce waste and maximize recovery yieldCompliance & SafetyEnsure compliance with EPA, ADEQ, OSHA, Fire Code, and environmental regulationsImplement safety programs and hazardous material protocolsMaintain documentation and inspection readinessManage environmental reporting and permittingFinancial PerformanceControl operating costsImprove production efficiencyIncrease plant margin and outputParticipate in revenue strategy and expansion planningLeadership Requirements (Non-Negotiable)7+years experience in industrial processing, refining, petrochemical, waste oil, or similar heavy industry5+ years in leadership/management capacityExperience managing plant personnel and operations teamsProven ability to scale operationsExperience with budgeting, forecasting, and P&L responsibilityStrong decision-making under pressureWe are not looking for someone who needs direction.We are looking for someone who provides it.Technical QualificationsBachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering (or equivalent experience required)Experience with oil re-refining, hydrocarbon processing, or industrial waste treatment preferredKnowledge of separation systems, filtration, distillation, and chemical stabilization processesFamiliarity with industrial automation and process controlsStrong analytical and troubleshooting capabilityIdeal Candidate ProfileBuilder mentalityHighly disciplinedSystems thinkerData-driven decision makerComfortable in industrial environmentsDirect communicatorAccountability-orientedCompensation Package· Base Salary: $100,000 – $120,000 depending on experience· Performance Bonus: 10–20% of net profits ($10K–$25K+ potential)· Profit Share / Phantom Equity: 5–10% vesting over 3 years· High performers will be rewarded directly for the value they create. In this role, you truly eat what you kill.Benefits & Perks· Full health, dental, and vision insurance· Unlimited PTO (use it responsibly)· Tools, equipment, and training budget to build the operation properlyImpact & Ownership· You will influence ~80% of the operation's success· You will help build the operational backbone of a new industrial business· Opportunity to build equity value in a company positioned for future expansion or acquisition