Area Manager - Renewable Energy (PA, MI, MN)

Opal Fuels•Detroit, MI

7d•$120,000 - $150,000•Remote

About The Position

About OPAL Fuels OPAL Fuels (Nasdaq: OPAL) is a leader in the capture and conversion of biogas into low carbon intensity RNG and renewable electricity. OPAL Fuels is also a leader in the marketing and distribution of RNG to heavy duty trucking and other hard to de-carbonize industrial sectors. For additional information, and to learn more about OPAL Fuels and how it is leading the effort to capture North America’s naturally occurring methane and decarbonize the economy, please visit www.opalfuels.com. Position Summary We are hiring an Area Manager to work with our Upstream Operations team. This position reports to our Director RNG Operations and is remote based with responsibility for plants in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Detroit, Michigan and Minneapolis, Minnesota. Travel to those sites is required. The Area Manager of Renewable Natural Gas and Renewable Power will oversee the daily operations of multiple RNG and RP plants. This operational leader will ensure safety, compliance, and efficiency across facilities, and driving performance to meet production, quality, and profitability goals. The role involves managing lead operators from various sites, fostering teamwork, implementing strategic initiatives to optimize plant operations, and being personally responsible for the results.

Requirements

A minimum of seven years in chemical, oil or gas processing operations, with proven success in managing multiple facilities.
Bachelor’s degree in engineering or over 15 years in the petro-chemical industry as an operations leader.
Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate teams, foster collaboration, and drive performance across multiple sites – via direct and electronic interactions (Microsoft Teams).
Strong understanding of gas processing or power generation, EH&S regulations, and compliance.
Working knowledge of electrical, controls, process engineering, and maintenance principles.
Proficient in data-driven decision-making, with strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly to internal and external stakeholders.
Proactive, detail-oriented, and adept at supervising teams, managing documentation, and ensuring operational efficiency.
Capable of walking on irregular surfaces, and operating tools/equipment.
Valid driver’s license required.
Ability to accommodate ~30% travel.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in renewable natural gas (RNG) or renewable power (RP) projects.
Strong mechanical/electrical aptitude and familiarity with pressure, vacuum, and flow principles.

Responsibilities

Prioritize safety and environmental performance, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and company policies.
Mentor and manage lead operators across multiple sites, promoting a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and operational excellence. Communicate goals clearly and resolve employee issues effectively.
Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive results, ensure stable operations, and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Identify root causes and take steps to prevent recurrence.
Maximize economic value from RNG and RP plants, allocate resources effectively, and identify opportunities for justified enhancement investments.
Implement/ensure completion of operator training to enhance system knowledge.
Operate preventative and predictive maintenance programs to ensure reliable asset performance.
Develop and manage operational budgets, review cost-control reports, and ensure cost-effective resource use.
Maintain relationships with utilities, energy managers, landfill O&M partners, and regulatory bodies, ensuring accurate data collection for reporting and compliance.
Stay updated on equipment operation best practices, industry standards, and technical advancements to optimize plant performance.