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

Opal Fuels•Detroit, MI

4d•$125,000 - $150,000•Hybrid

About The Position

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. The Area Manager will work with the Upstream Operations team and report to the Director RNG Operations. This position is remote based with responsibility for plants in Detroit and Marshall Michigan, Minneapolis, Minnesota and Shiloh, Ohio. Travel to those sites is required with at least 50% working from a plant site. 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.
Previous experience in renewable natural gas (RNG) or renewable power (RP) projects.
Strong mechanical/electrical aptitude and familiarity with pressure, vacuum, and flow principles.
Ability to accommodate ~50% travel.

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.