Area Operations Manager

Heidelberg Materials • Thornton, IL

14d • $136,030 - $181,363

About The Position

The Area Operations Manager leads safe, efficient operations across multiple aggregates sites. The role is responsible for consistent execution of safety and operating standards and delivery of production, quality, and customer service targets through effective planning, daily management routines, and performance coaching. The manager ensures MSHA, DOT, and environmental compliance in partnership with EHS, including inspections, audits, training, and corrective action closure. The role also drives equipment reliability and maintenance execution, manages cost-per-ton performance through budgets and variance reviews, and leads continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mining/Engineering, Operations/Industrial Management, Business, or a related field; equivalent experience is considered.
• At least 7 years of operations leadership experience in aggregates/mining or related heavy industrial operations.
• Strong working knowledge of MSHA and demonstrated ability to lead safety culture and regulatory compliance.
• Experience managing budgets and cost drivers, with ability to improve productivity, reliability, and cost per ton.
• Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills, with ability to develop teams and lead change.
• Must submit to a post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check.
• Some positions require ongoing FMCSA-regulated drug and alcohol testing.
• Willingness to travel regularly within the assigned area, typically 50%–75%, mostly on day trips with occasional overnight trips.

Nice To Haves

• Multi-site leadership experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead safe, efficient operations across multiple aggregates sites and ensure consistent execution of safety and operating standards.
• Deliver production, quality, and customer service targets through effective planning, daily management routines, and performance coaching.
• Ensure MSHA, DOT, and environmental compliance; partner with EHS on inspections, audits, training, and corrective action closure.
• Drive equipment reliability and maintenance execution, including outage coordination, downtime prioritization, and preventive maintenance compliance.
• Own cost-per-ton performance through budget management, variance reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and participation in the annual incentive plan.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with automatic company contribution and matching contributions.
• Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug benefits.
• Health Savings Account (HSA), Health Reimbursement Account (HRA), and Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• AD&D, short- and long-term disability coverage, and basic life insurance.
• Paid bonding leave, 15 days of paid vacation, 40 hours of paid sick leave, and 10 paid holidays.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager