Production Manager

Ascend Performance Materials • Decatur, AL

5d

About The Position

This role is responsible for leading the Boiler House / Utilities (BHU) and Wastewater Treatment operations at the site. The Production Manager ensures the safe, reliable, and cost-effective delivery of steam, power, water, and environmental compliance. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, sound technical judgment, and the ability to solve problems using data and structured thinking. This leader will foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and teamwork while supporting Ascend to Excellence (A2E) principles in a practical and results-oriented manner.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering required; advanced degree is a plus
• Eight to ten years of experience in chemical manufacturing within a PSM-covered plant, including leadership experience.
• Experience with utilities systems such as boilers, cogeneration, or wastewater treatment is strongly preferred.
• Proactive leadership and team-building skills with the ability to create alignment and work effectively throughout the organization in a team based, fast paced environment.
• Proactive, forward-thinking leadership with a demonstrated ability to anticipate issues, challenge the status quo, and drive improved outcomes
• Ability to influence, motivate, and align teams across all levels of the organization
• Strong understanding of safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements
• Ability to apply structured problem-solving and data-driven decision making
• Strong financial and cost management awareness
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general business systems
• Working knowledge of Lean/Six Sigma concepts with the ability to apply tools where appropriate

Nice To Haves

• Six Sigma/Lean training/exposure is considered a plus, but not a requirement.

Responsibilities

• Lead a safe operations area utilizing Absolute Zero safety principles
• Ensure reliable delivery of utilities (steam, power, water) to support site operations
• Maintain full compliance and strong performance in wastewater treatment operations
• Deliver year-over-year improvements in energy efficiency and cost performance
• Establish and sustain effective work processes for operations, reliability, and environmental compliance
• Build a high-performing team with clear accountability and strong engagement
• Build and develop a high-performing operations team across Boiler House, Utilities, Cogeneration, and Wastewater units
• Set clear expectations, provide regular feedback, and hold team members accountable
• Promote a culture of safety, ownership, and continuous improvement
• Ensure employees have the tools, training, and direction needed to succeed
• Ensure compliance with all environmental permits, PSM requirements, and corporate standards
• Own wastewater treatment performance and regulatory compliance
• Drive strong safety and environmental performance using leading and lagging indicators
• Support site initiatives related to ISO 9001 and RC 14000 compliance
• Improve efficiency across steam, power, water, and fuel systems
• Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities using structured problem-solving tools
• Ensure quality control systems are followed and measurements are accurate and maintained
• Coordinate with supply chain and other production units to meet business commitments
• Develop complete knowledge of the cost drivers for the manufacturing units and be responsible for meeting budgeted and forecasted cost targets.
• Use A2E process to drive performance and achieve best available cost position in the areas of materials usage (yield) and conversion costs.
• Drive energy optimization through alignment with energy procurement teams, efficiency initiatives, and EEE support to maximize profitability for Decatur.
• Will be site contact for energy procurement and focal point for energy optimization initiatives
• Responsible for BHU (Boiler House / Utilities) operations team performance
• Lead overall performance of the BHU and wastewater operations teams
• Partner with maintenance, engineering, and environmental teams to ensure reliable operation
• Support development of supervisors, engineers, and operators

Benefits

• At Ascend Performance Materials, we value transparency and fairness in our hiring process.
• We do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters, search firms, or staffing agencies.
• Any resumes received from such entities will be considered the property of Ascend Performance Materials, and we will not be obligated to pay any fees for such submissions.
• Our Talent Acquisition Team actively engages with preferred recruitment partners who have established agreements with us.
• We encourage all interested candidates to apply directly through our official channels to be considered for any open positions.
• Ascend Performance Materials offers team members the opportunity to contribute in big, meaningful ways—all within a stable and growing business.
• Our people are our greatest assets, and our Total Rewards Program extends beyond traditional benefits to include access to on-site medical clinics at our U.S. facilities, a global wellness rewards program and Performance Matters, an employee-driven recognition plan.
• And the Ascend Cares Foundation, led by Ascend employees, supports Ascend families in times of need, provides inspiring opportunities for community engagement and facilitates community leadership.

What This Job Offers

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